Northwest Observer / Jan. 18 - Feb. 14, 2024 by pscommunications

Jan. 18, 2024 - Feb. 14, 2024

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Farmhouse Community Center – gone too far to stop? Oak Ridge council members discussed halting the renovation and expansion of the historic Redmon house due to rising costs, but decided to move forward with the creation of a public meeting space by CHRIS BURRITT OAK RIDGE – Oak Ridge Town Council decided at their meeting on Thursday, Jan. 4, to proceed with the renovation and expansion of the historic Redmon house after discussing the possibility of halting the project due to rising costs. “I believe we’ve gone to the point where it makes sense to finish it,” said Mayor Jim Kinneman, who sided with council members Ann Schneider and Jim Harton in voting to move forward with the project.

It is prudent to continue with the project. I believe we’ve gone far enough that to stop the project and go back or attempt to go back would be not a very good use of the money.’’ Oak Ridge Mayor Jim Kinneman

An opponent of the project, Mayor Pro Tem Mike Stone estimated that upgrading the vacant 1,100-squarefoot farmhouse at the entrance to Town Park to a 1,500-square-foot building for

use as a community center will eventually cost $750,000, exceeding current projections of about $620,000. State and federal grants totaling $380,000

IN THIS ISSUE

Reopening of Wilson’s Grocery stirs memories.............................. 16 Still tossing dough after 30 years...... 18 ORTC Jan. 4 meeting highlights........21 S’dale TC Jan. 11 meeting highlights..26 Community Calendar....................... 30 NWO Kids’ Korner................................ 32 Youth Link............................................. 33 Go “Into the Woods” with NW Little Theatre performers..... 36 Crime/Incident Report....................... 38 Grins and Gripes................................. 40 Classifieds............................................ 44 Index of advertisers............................ 47

News in brief........................................... 2 Council considers alternatives to municipal water system plan..... 3 Your Questions....................................... 4 NWO On The Go.................................... 6 Welcome to our new advertiser......... 7 SFTC Jan. 9 meeting highlights........... 8 NWO Business and Real Estate......... 12 Business rezoning sought for Strader Road project.................. 13

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

Bar Construction recently removed a 1970s’ addition to the circa 1930s Redmon house at the corner of Linville Road and Lisa Drive and covered the exterior wall until a new kitchen and bathroom are added. The work is part of the expansion and renovation of the house in preparation for its conversion to the Farmhouse ...continued on p. 42 Community Center, which will be offered as public meeting space.

Summerfield council pulls back U.S. 220 welcome sign It’s the latest project stalled or abandoned by the Town Council in recent years, costing nearly $434,000 in tax dollars by CHRIS BURRITT SUMMERFIELD – In its first meeting of the year, Summerfield Town Council showed it can reverse course on big projects

just as well as previous councils. During its Jan. 9 meeting, the council voted 4-1 to reject the design of the “Welcome to

...continued on p. 29

NEWS in brief

Commercial rezoning denied for U.S. 220 property Summerfield Town Council turned down a rezoning application for nearly 4.8 acres after Summerfield Road homeowners objected to businesses abutting their backyards SUMMERFIELD – Chalk up a rezoning victory for “fat ladies” sunbathing in their backyards. That’s how Summerfield resident Betsy North voiced her opposition to a rezoning application for nearly 4.8 acres on U.S. 220. The four parcels south of

N.C. 150 bump up against the backyards of some Summerfield Road property owners. Summerfield Town Council sided with North and other opponents of the rezoning request, voting 4-1 to deny zoning of the property from singlefamily residential (RS-30) and business (BN) districts to conditional zoning business (CZ-BN). Even though she doesn’t live on Summerfield Road, North said she’s got friends who do live there. She said they’re opposed to commercial intrusion into their backyards. “That’s private space where the children play,” North said. “It’s where fat

...continued on p. 20

Courtesy of Town of Oak Ridge

The perimeter path around the 62-acre Heritage Farm Park that is under construction leads to a sidewalk at Oak Ridge Town Hall on Linville Road that connects to Oak Ridge Town Park across the street. This past November the front part of Heritage Farm Park opened to visitors to enjoy walking/running on the paved perimeter path. The back part of the new park is still closed due to ongoing construction (visitors can park their cars at Oak Ridge Town Park to access the perimeter path at Heritage Farm Park). When completed late this summer, Oak Ridge’s second park will offer two multipurpose fields, a playground and the Veterans Honor Green, while preserving scenic views and farmland.

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Council considers alternatives to municipal water system plan by CHRIS BURRITT SUMMERFIELD – As Summerfield Town Council explores establishing a municipal water system with $6.6 million in state and federal funds, a second option has arisen since last November’s election of two new council members, Jonathan Hamilton and Heath Clay. During its Oct. 10 meeting – the last before the Nov. 7 election – the previous council instructed Town Manager Scott Whitaker to continue working with engineering firm Freese and Nichols on the design of a water system. Starting with a 300,000-gallon elevated tank, 7,000 feet of 12-inch transmission lines would extend in two directions – south on Summerfield Road and west on N.C. 150. After recently meeting with Freese and Nichols engineer Bryan Jann, Clay proposed an alternative that, like the original design, would provide water for fire protection and, in a second phase, water for drinking. Clay suggested shrinking the size of the tank to a yet undecided size and reducing the diameter of the lines from 12 inches to eight inches. He also proposed extending the

lines an additional 5,000 feet, bringing the total length to 12,000 feet. That would allow for the installation of more fire hydrants and provide fire coverage for a larger area, he said. Those reductions would still provide the infrastructure necessary for eventually providing drinking water, Jann told the council during its Jan. 9 meeting. Either option would probably require the installation of additional tanks along the route of the lines to create enough pressure to move water to the terminus of the system, Jann said. Using smaller lines may require additional tanks, he said. “If you kind of change gears and downsize the line a little bit, you can still expand the system,” Jann said. “It just looks different. Instead of having one or two tanks, you may have three or four.” The changes would increase design and other Phase 1 costs by about $90,000, bringing the total to $575,600, according to an estimate by Freese and Nichols. Mayor Pro Tem Lynne Williams DeVaney reiterated that she wants town leaders to talk to Summerfield Fire District about sharing costs for the system.

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Members of the Park Improvement Committee and Town staff completed a final walkthrough of the completed basketball and pickleball project in Stokesdale Town Park on Dec. 22 with Commie Johnson of CJ Builders. “Even with the brisk temperatures and lengthening shadows of this winter afternoon, the next day the courts had attracted future all-stars, and parents introducing their youngsters to the sport of pickleball,” said Tee Stephenson, chair of the town’s Park Improvement Committee. “It warms my The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 heart to see the vision come to life!” he added.

Tracy Williams, attorney JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

your QUESTIONS www.nwobserver.com /northwestobserver @mynwobserver @northwestobserver

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I recently was driving south on U.S. 220 and noticed a Summerfield Fire Depart ment truck getting water from a hydrant across from Center for Creative Leadership in Greensboro. Does the fire department have to pay the City of Greensboro for that water? I recently noticed surveying crews along Belews Creek Road between Coldwater Road and Stokesdale Street. I stopped and asked one of the surveyors what they were surveying for and he told me he believed it was for expansion of public water along this route. Is this correct and if so, can we expect residential water to be offered in this area? Yes, Stokesdale plans to extend its water lines in this area, although it will be a while (as in, about two years) before residents have the option to hook up to the town’s water system. The Town plans to extend water lines to reinforce

email your questions to:

questions@nwobserver.com or submit at nwobserver.com

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

“We do not pay the City of Greensboro for water when we fill up at a hydrant,” Jenna Daniels, assistant fire chief with

Summerfield Fire District, told us.

the single water main supplying the municipal water system, and will be ultimately running an 8-inch pipe down Coldwater Creek Road and extending it along N.C. 65 before tying it to the water system on Oak Level Church Road.

Council members it would take about 12 months to design the project, three months to let it out to bid, and then 12 to 18 months for the delivery of raw materials and construction – so, 27 to 33 months from start of design to end of construction.

The water line extension will be funded with grant money the town received which was allocated for water system projects.

To find out whether you’re in the area that will be served by this extension and to get an update on the timeline for its completion, call Stokesdale Town Hall at (336) 643-4011 or email Stokesdale Town Clerk Robbie Wagoner at rwagoner@stokesdale.org.

“We only fill up in the instances of fire training or emergency calls,” she added.

At the town’s July 13, 2023 meeting, Aaron Babson, an engineer with Hazen & Sawyer, told Stokesdale Town

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Ivy, MJ, Margo and Oak Ridge residents Mac, Northwest Observer with Mercer Tanvishut shared the ut family at the famous their whole extended Tanvish n Sawan, Thailand. S&V Restaurant in Nakho

Jammie and Cathy spent two weeks traveling out West. During a stop at Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park, they browsed the Northwest Observer to catch up on what was happening back home.

Jamie McCuiston and Chris Green, both members of NWHS Class of 2000, reconnected after 19 years and got married on Oct. 21, 2023, at Belmont Mansion in Reidsville. During their wedding reception, they started their marriage off on the right foot by reading the local news together!

The Bennett family took the Northwest Observer to the easternmost point of the United States, Point Udall. A big tha nks to Owen, age 10, for making sure his mo m packed the paper and got a photo!

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I (Greg) was born and raised in Oak Ridge, just down the road from the elementary school. I was the last one on the bus and first one off. In 2003 I moved to Stokesdale, where I still reside with my wife, Christy, who was born and raised in Summerfield, my son, Brantley, and daughters Kylie and Kate.

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File photo

The historic Gordon Hardware building at the corner of N.C. 150 and Summerfield Road has been sold for $84,680. The owner plans to use the building for “some type of retail” – visit us online at www.nwobserver.com for more details as they become available.

JAN. 9 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by CHRIS BURRITT SUMMERFIELD – Mayor Tim Sessoms called the monthly meeting to order, with Mayor Pro Tem Lynne Williams DeVaney and council members Janelle Robinson, John Doggett, Jonathan Hamilton and Heath Clay present.

ANNOUNCEMENT Annual strategic planning retreat. Town Manager Scott Whitaker reminded the council about its annual strategic planning retreat which is scheduled at Town Hall Friday, Jan. 26, beginning at 5 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 27, at 8:30 a.m. The public is invited to attend.

PUBLIC SAFETY Summerfield Fire District. The fire district reported it ran 15 firerelated calls, 68 EMS-related calls and 55 other calls for a total of 138 calls in December. Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s District 1 office reported it responded to 238 calls for service in Summerfield last month, resulting in 19 formal case reports. The office highlighted three incidents: • A Dec. 14 shooting at a house on

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PUBLIC COMMENTS Nathan Hardiman introduced himself as president of the Summerwoods Homeowners Association. Citing the town’s development regulations, state law and a state legal ruling, Summerfield resident Dwayne Crawford said he believes the council engaged in “process violation” Oct. 5 when it voted to amend the town’s UDO (unified development ordinance). At that meeting, the council voted 3-2 to amend the town’s development rules to create a new zoning district that would accommodate landowner David Nor Mentio thw est O n this a bser d in t h ver for 1 e 0% off

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Couch’s plans for apartments and other higher-density development.

ANNUAL AUDIT

CPA Cindy Randolph, whose accounting firm is based in West Jefferson, North Carolina, said her audit of Summerfield’s financial statement for last fiscal year produced an “unmodified opinion” (i.e., a clean audit), in accordance with financial reporting requirements. Randolph praised Finance Officer Dee Hall for doing “a fabulous job” in handling the town’s finances. The audit for the fiscal year that ended June 30 represented “seven perfect audits in a row,” Hall said.

PUBLIC HEARING

Commercial rezoning request

 4  1 (Doggett opposed) to

deny a request for the rezoning of nearly 4.9 acres on U.S. 220 south of N.C. 150 from single-family residential (RS-30) and business (BN) districts to conditional zoning business (CZ-BN). (See related article on p. 2.)

MANAGER’S BUSINESS

engineer Bryan Jann to discuss options for the town’s proposed water system. However, the vote to proceed immediately with Phase 1 of the municipal water system design failed after Hamilton, Clay and Robinson said they wanted to delay planning by a month. Newly seated, Hamilton and Clay sought extra time to review the background and next steps for the system. For more details on this discussion, see News Briefs, p. 2.

Welcome sign

 4  1 (Doggett against) to reject

town staff’s recommendation that the town hire The Carolina Signsmith to construct a “Welcome to Summerfield” sign along U.S. 220 at Strawberry Road. DeVaney objected to the use of stone in the sign, saying it looks more appropriate for a sign in Blowing Rock, a resort town near Boone, than in Summerfield. She said she favors the use of brick as representative of historic construction in Summerfield. Whitaker asked that the council take over the redesign of the sign, and DeVaney said she would do so.

Water system engineering

Budget calendar

establish a municipal water system with a smaller transmission line and smaller tanks than proposed last year. (DeVaney and Doggett voted in favor, but the motion failed for lack of a majority).

town staff, the Finance Committee and the council to prepare the budget for the fiscal year starting July 1.

 2  3 to proceed with plans to

 5  0 to adopt the calendar for

Speed limit reduction

 5  0 to concur with North Caro-

Council members supported revising lina Department of Transportation’s decision to reduce the speed limit on the scope of the project, as recomLake Brandt Road north of Scalesville mended by Clay after he and Robinson Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 met The recently with Freese and Nichols ...continued on p. 10

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S’FIELD TC ...continued from p. 8 Road from 55 mph to 45 mph.

Gordon Hardware building sale. Whitaker reported that Preservation North Carolina (PNC) concluded the sale of the historic Gordon Hardware building to a buyer planning “some type of retail” in the space. PNC represented the town in the transaction. Whitaker didn’t provide additional information about plans for the building.

COUNCIL BUSINESS Potential legislative de-annexation. Partly due to the Christmas holidays, Hamilton said he’s not made progress in talking to lobbyists and lawyers engaged in the possible de-annexation of developer David Couch’s 978 acres in Summerfield. Public records. Hamilton said he favors releasing as many emails and other information related to de-annexation as possible. He said he believes some

documents determined by Town Attorney Bob Hornik to be protected due to attorney-client privilege are being withheld improperly from the public.

“It’s not up to us to gate keep because we’re afraid of what the public may scrutinize,” Hamilton said. “I don’t think anyone is trying to gate keep,” said Sessoms, explaining that the council has followed Hornik’s advice. Due to stormy weather, Chapel Hill-based Hornik participated in the meeting by phone. After he and Hamilton sparred over the disclosure of documents, they agreed to resume discussions during the council’s meeting Feb. 13.

Lobbyist contract. During its strategic planning retreat later this month, the council plans to discuss

whether to extend the $8,000-a-month contract with lobbying firm King and Co. The firm was hired last year to assist the town in its efforts to oppose the potential de-annexation of landowner David Couch’s 978 acres. The contract with King and Co. is scheduled to expire Jan. 31, after the council earlier extended it by a month.

Budget amendment

 5  0 to approve transferring $3,607.13 from the town’s fund balance to cover higher staff expenses for unemployment compensation, lodging and travel for training.

Code of ethics. Without offering specific recommendations, DeVaney said she wants the council to make sure the town’s code of ethics and conflict of interest policies are consistent for staff, the council, committees and boards. Whitaker asked whether council members have particular concerns about inconsistencies regarding conflicts of interest, to which DeVaney responded she’s seeking to make sure that, going forward, the

Bandera Farms Park update

32

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

Summerfield Town Council members Jonathan Hamilton (left) and Janelle Robinson voted with Heath Clay (not shown) in favor of requiring Town Manager Scott Whitaker to share with council members changes in the development of Bandera Farms Park resulting in cost increases of $5,000 or more. Council members Lynne Williams DeVaney and John Doggett voted against the motion, with Doggett saying, “We need to let him (the town manager) do his job.” policies are consistent in “black and white.” “We are trying to go for transparency,” Hamilton added. Clay pointed out that the town’s consolidated committee ordinance also addresses conflicts of interest. The council agreed to resume discussions in a later meeting.

Public comments policy. Several years ago, Summerfield’s town council reduced from five minutes to three minutes the time individual speakers have to make their comments during the Public Comments portion of the council meeting; the time reduction drew criticism from some residents. Clay reported the council’s policy of limiting public comments to three minutes is consistent with the policies in neighboring municipalities such as Oak Ridge, Stokesdale, Kernersville and Jamestown.

(DeVaney and Doggett voted against) to instruct Whitaker to share with council members changes in Bandera Farms’ design and construction that may increase costs by $5,000 or more.

Planning enforcement officer. Hall said she played no role in Whitaker’s decision last November to hire her son, Daniel Bare, for the position of planning technician/enforcement officer.

Weekly updates by staff. Robinson asked Whitaker and Rentz to provide a weekly update about rezoning applications and other matters that involve staff putting up signs advising of public meetings. Robinson said it’s “frustrating” to be unable to discuss matters with residents who’ve seen signs that she’s not seen. “Anything where a sign goes up, I’d like to know about it happening,” she said. Whitaker agreed to provide the weekly update as requested.

Meeting packet. Clay asked Whitaker whether town staff could provide meeting materials to council members

a week before meetings versus the Friday before the meeting on the following Tuesday. Whitaker and Hall explained that not all materials, including monthly financial reports, are available a week in advance. The manager said the council may want to consider holding work sessions in advance of regular meetings in an effort to “get up to speed” on topics. The council and the staff didn’t settle on a solution. “It’s a two-way street,” Clay said. “What can you do to give us additional time” to review meeting materials? With no further comments, the meeting was adjourned at 11:48 p.m.

“I’m not his supervisor,” the finance officer said. “It is not a violation” of the town’s personnel policy due to Hall’s lack of supervision of her son, Whitaker said. “It was well vetted; it was my decision.” Whitaker said he shared information about the hiring with council members at that time, then noted that he declined to hire Bare last summer, partly to prevent possible nepotism claims in the months leading up to the Nov. 7 election. Whitaker said he decided to hire Bare after he (Bare) had volunteered for more than 200 hours in the planning department. He based the decision on the skills Bare gained while volunteering and a lack of other applicants in the roughly two years the position had been open.

DeVaney raised the issue of Bare’s A&Y Greenway update. Whitaker hiring, saying she wants to make sure said he’s preparing for right-of-way “the community knows what’s out discussions with some property owners there.” along the proposed southern leg of the Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway. Agenda preparation. Sessoms urged council members who request topics In meetings last year, some propbe included on the meeting agenda to erty owners objected to the proposed provide enough information for other route, prompting staff and engineering council members and staff to prepare firm Kimley-Horn to address possible The Northwest Observer • Totallyatlocal since 1996 for discussion the meeting. changes in the route.

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Kings or King’s: to apostrophize or not to apostrophize, that is the question...

What’s happening with the two vacant lots in Stokesdale – the one at King’s Crossing shopping center and the other across from Stokes dale Fire Department?

If I remember correctly, the town council approved rezoning them this past summer.

Yes, despite the King’s Crossing Shopping Center having an Oak Ridge mailing address, it is in the town limits of Stokesdale and Stokesdale Town Council approved a rezoning request for this lot as well as the lot across from

Stokesdale Fire Department during its Aug. 10, 2023, meeting. At that time zoning for the outparcel lot in the shopping center, which faces Haw River Road, was amended to allow automobile repair services and tire sales. Justin Snyder is a senior planner for Guilford County, which contracts with Stokesdale to provide planning services. He confirmed last week that a site plan has been submitted for a Mavis Tire store to be built on the lot in King’s Crossing. “It’s still in the review process and it will be months before it gets past that point,” Snyder said. The other lot, which is actually two abutting parcels – one located at 8200 Stokesdale St. and the other at 8320 Loyola St. in downtown Stokesdale – was rezoned from Limited Office

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Mavis Tire plans to build a store on this outparcel in the King’s Crossing shopping center at the corner of N.C. 68 and Haw River Road in Stokesdale. (LO) and RS-30 (residential, minimum 30,000-square-foot lot) to Conditional Zoning-General Business (CZ-GB). Snyder said development plans for

this lot have not yet been submitted to the county.

...more Questions on p. 20

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Rezoning marks new life for Last Minute Market by CHRIS BURRITT

“Eleven o’clock wasn’t satisfactory to any of the neighbors,” neighbor Tim Shields said. “Eight o’clock is the latest that I remember that store staying open.” Shields added that he believes headlights of vehicles patronizing the store “are just about going to shine in my front window.” One of the conditions offered by owner Murad Ali, of Summerfield, doubled planting rates along Haw River Road. Plans call for the planting

OAK RIDGE – The new owner of the decades-old Last Minute Market won conditional business rezoning of the property, allowing the Haw River Road store to reopen. Oak Ridge Town Council voted unanimously Jan. 4 to rezone the nearly 1.4-acre tract from agricultural (AG) to conditional zoning – limited business (CZ-LB), despite an adjacent property owner’s concerns about late-night operNorthwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 atingThe hours. ...continued on p. 14

REAL ESTATE/BUSINESS briefs

Business rezoning sought for Strader Road project Nearby homeowners expressed concerns about increased traffic and storm water runoff in the residential area that surrounds the proposed commercial site

Photos by Chris Burritt/NWO

 At right, developer Jeff Whelan discusses the N.C. 150 and Strader Road rezoning request during an informational meeting on Jan. 10 at Summerfield Town Hall as business partner Will Stevens (left) listens.  Developers are seeking the rezoning of two adjacent parcels – a commercial lot on the corner of N.C. 150 and Strader Road and a larger surrounding tract with a 1955 house and some outbuildings.

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From our family to yours – We are so thankful for your support over the past 40 plus years. We would enjoy partnering with you to build your dream home. by CHRIS BURRITT SUMMERFIELD – Developers Will Stevens and Tim Whelan are seeking the conditional business rezoning of roughly 3.2 acres at N.C. 150 and Strader Road for commercial tenants ranging from medical, dental and veterinary clinics to beauty shops and spas.

who live near the property crowded Summerfield Town Hall Wednesday evening, Jan. 10, to learn about the rezoning request. Some expressed concerns about the potential for more traffic and noise, nighttime light pollution and storm water runoff. “Why stick it in the middle of

The Northwest since 1996 More than a dozen homeowners Observer • Totally local ...continued on p. 14

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REZONING SOUGHT

is expected to make a recommendation on whether the council should approve or deny the request.

residential like this?” homeowner Claudio Ballini asked the developers. “Most of the folks here… are trying to limit the damage,” homeowner Tom Armstrong added. “They’re asking, ‘how do we prevent the domino effect in the future?’” Homeowners will get two more chances to express their views about the rezoning application. A public hearing will be held during Summerfield’s Planning Board meeting at 6:30 p.m. this coming Monday, Jan. 22, at Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road. After the hearing, the board

The council will then hold a public hearing during its Feb. 13 meeting before deciding whether to approve or turn down the application. The council’s meeting also begins at 6:30 p.m. and will be held in Summerfield Community Center.

...continued from p. 13

During last week’s meeting, Marc Isaacson, a Greensboro lawyer representing the developers, said the rezoning request reflects “a need for professional services” in Summerfield. The developers explained the tract for which they’re seeking rezoning consists of two parcels. The corner

lot is currently zoned for general business (BN), which allows many uses – including drive-through restaurants. The second parcel wraps around the corner lot and is zoned for agricultural (AG) use. Stevens and Whelan are seeking conditional business (CZ-BN) rezoning for both tracts. Then, they’d combine them for development of buildings, parking and septic and well water systems. If the council denies the rezoning request, the developers said they may “flip” the property to another developer. The new owner would be able to seek for the corner lot a range of businesses that could be less desirable to homeowners, such as a drivethrough restaurant and an oil change shop, both of which are currently allowed under business zoning.

“We didn’t come here to ram anything down anybody’s throat; we came here to listen and take your comments into consideration,” Whelan said. He added, however, that “if things don’t go our way, we would probably sell to someone who didn’t care so much.” Rezoning of the property for conditional business use represents “the lesser of two evils,” said Jo Barham, who lives next to the proposed commercial site. “It sounds like something is coming… no matter what,” Barham said. “I don’t want a Cook Out there and I don’t think anybody else does.”

LAST MINUTE MKT. ...continued from p. 12

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of “hundreds and hundreds” of trees, shrubs and other vegetation, said Bill Greco, principal of Land Solutions, a land surveying and design firm representing the owner. Ali plans to remodel the store and continue selling gasoline, according to Greco. He added the renovation will follow the standards of Oak Ridge’s Commercial Village Core Design Guidebook, even though the property is several miles northwest of the commercial district. It is located across from Parkchester Place, an entrance to the Knight’s Landing subdivision. After talking to neighbors, Greco said he estimated the store is many Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO decades and possibly 100 years old. The new owner of Last Minute Market, a Ali bought it from Shane and Amanda decades-old landmark on Haw River Road, Nelson last July, according to the deed between N.C. 68 and Linville Road, says posted online by Guilford County. the convenience store and gas station will “I am pleased that so many accomreopen after renovations have been commodations have been made and that this pleted and gasoline pumps relocated. long-standing institution will continue,” “To some degree, the hours might council member Ann Schneider said. “The wide buffers and the huge numbers self-regulate,” Mayor Jim Kinneman of trees sounds like it is going to do a said. “If they’re not busy at 9, 10 or 11 huge job and go a long way toward o’clock at night, market forces are going The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 screening all activities from neighbors.” to cause them to close at 9 o’clock.”

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Reopening of Wilson’s Grocery stirs memories From worms for fishing and bubblegum for their kids, customers remember the kindness of ‘Shorty’ and Geneva Wilson and welcome the new owner by CHRIS BURRITT SUMMERFIELD – Memories rushed back with the reopening of Wilson’s Grocery last week as old customers recalled buying soda after school and worms for fishing. Longtime Summerfield resident Danny Nelson was one of the store’s first customers on Monday, Jan. 8. He suggested to new owner Jiten Oza that he put bubblegum in a plastic jar so

that children can grab a piece for free (with their parents’ permission). That was one of the acts of generosity by previous owners Harold “Shorty” Wilson and his wife, Geneva. In response to a post last week on the Northwest Observer’s Facebook page, several former customers shared other memories of the couple and their visits to the store.

“We loved going there,” Paul Godino wrote. “I have great memories, as do my kids, of Shorty and Geneva giving them bubble gum every time we stopped in.” Back in the 1960s, Judy Burroughs

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At right, Wilson’s Grocery owner Jiten Oza shares a laugh with Summerfield’s Danny Nelson, a longtime customer of the store and friend of the previous owners, Shorty and Geneva Wilson, for more than 50 years. Nelson was among the store’s first customers when it reopened on Jan. 8 after being closed for about 1 ½ years following Shorty Wilson’s death in 2022. recalled that the store “was an afterschool stop… for those who drove to and from Northwest HS.” Aaron Young wrote that he liked looking at Shorty’s NASCAR memorabilia when he went there with his dad for a soda in a glass bottle. In another post, Phil Simmons, who bought fishing worms and gas from the store, wished “Mr. Oza the best in his new adventure.” Added Michelle Moody: “So glad to see it’s back open!” The landmark at Carlson Dairy and Pleasant Ridge roads closed in 2022 after Shorty’s death. He had operated the store since 1972 with Geneva, before her death in 2016. This past June, Oza purchased the 1-acre tract with the store and an adjacent manufactured home. Reopening of the business was in jeopardy late last year after Summerfield Planning Manager Brad Rentz determined the town’s unified development ordinance prevented the resumption of operations due to the

store’s proximity to Lake Higgins. However, the town reversed its decision after a review of minutes from the Town Council’s meeting in June 2006 found the council had voted unanimously to adopt a “minor watershed modification” on the property, as requested by Wilson; that cleared the path for the reopening of the store. The uncertainty “was very concerning,” Oza said in an interview last week as he helped stock the store with newly arriving merchandise. Now, he said, “I’m very excited.” An operator of other Triad convenience stores, Oza installed new shelving and lights inside the former Wilson’s grocery store, along with a walk-in beer cooler. Improvements created more space for paper towels and other household items so that nearby homeowners “don’t have to make big shopping trips,” said Oza, who lives in Summerfield.

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by CHRIS BURRITT OAK RIDGE – If Mickey Tingen hadn’t broken an ankle playing pickup basketball three decades ago, he might be doing something other than operating eight Domino’s stores. After graduating with a business degree from Appalachian State University in 1992, Tingen moved back to his hometown of Burlington where he said he was raised by a single mom “on the other side of the tracks.” He took a store merchandising job with R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. When he wasn’t stocking shelves with cigarettes, he played volleyball and basketball, as he had done in college. He met Domino’s franchisee Page Stokes on the volleyball court. He asked Tingen to join his growing company, only to be turned down several times – until Tingen broke his ankle in late 1993. Unable to return immediately to work for RJR, Tingen started taking orders in the Domino’s in Graham in January 1994. Then, as he began delivering pizzas, he felt the tug of entrepreneurship. Three months after joining Domino’s, Tingen resigned from RJR. He liked the idea of advancing at Domino’s where operators who follow the company’s

playbook and pay attention to costs, quality and service were usually successful. He bought his first three restaurants, including the Summerfield store, from Stokes in 2010. The next year, he bought the Oak Ridge store from another franchisee and went on to add stores in Kernersville, Greensboro, Trinity and Mayodan. “I have a marriage with Domino’s,” said Tingen, 55, one of about 730 U.S. franchisees of the company. Over the past 14 years, Tingen has doubled sales of his outlets and navigated the pandemic, years of intensifying competition and other challenges to boost profitability. And, he is looking at opportunities to add more stores. “We’re not holding steady; we’d like to grow,” Tingen said in an interview earlier this month in his Oak Ridge store on Marketplace Drive. Early on with Domino’s, Tingen said he “agreed to uphold their standards and operate the stores the way that they’ve designed.”

“That suited me because coming up with an entire menu or entire concept was not something that was attractive to me,” he said. “I understood the play that we’re trying to run – make a consistent product and give good, consistent service in a friendly manner and at a good price. And that gives value to the customer.”

Photo by Chris Burritt/NWO

For Oak Ridge’s Mickey Tingen, a part-time job delivering pizzas in 1994 led to his ownership of eight Domino’s stores, including the locations in Oak Ridge and Summerfield

Oak Ridge resident Mickey Tingen, who owns eight Domino’s stores including the ones in Summerfield and Oak Ridge, poses inside his store on Marketplace Drive in Oak Ridge with a pepperoni pizza he prepared. The 55-year-old businessman started with Domino’s by taking orders and delivering pizzas in the Alamance County town of Graham and increasingly gained experience managing restaurants for another franchisee. This year Tingen celebrates his 30th anniversary with the company and 14th year as a franchise owner.

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Tingen said he still eats pizza weekly, favoring thin crust with bacon and jalapenos or veggie and banana peppers. Among customers, pepperoni is the most popular topping, he added. In the year before Tingen bought his first stores, Domino’s scrapped its 49-year-old pizza recipe due to customer complaints. Some people back then had described Domino’s as “the worst pizza I ever had” with sauce that “tastes like ketchup” and crust that “tastes like cardboard.” CEO Patrick Doyle launched an ad campaign acknowledging sharp criticism from focus groups. Relaunching the pizza with “a new sauce, garlic topping around the crust and more of a premium cheese changed the flavor profile” and won back customers, Tingen said. In recent years, Domino’s has declined to join competitors Pizza Hut and Papa John’s or supermarket brands such as DiGiorno in selling stuffed-crust pizza.

“We’ve avoided the gimmicky type things,” Tingen said. “We just want to stick to our value message, which is our mix-and-match menu of two or more items.” A year ago, Domino’s raised the price of the mix-and-match menu by $1 to $6.99, reflecting that “costs had gone up exponentially” since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Tingen. Just months before the pandemic arrived in early 2020, he had relocated his Oak Ridge restaurant to a new location on Marketplace Drive with a drive-through window. It proved attractive to customers, as did prepaid options such as curbside pickup, a service offered by many businesses in various industries.

Nationwide, Domino’s kept its restaurants open since they qualified as “essential” under pandemic regulations. “Because of COVID, we made more changes in six months than the previous five years combined,” Tingen said. In 2013, Tingen moved to Oak Ridge with his wife, Meredith, and their sons, Nick and Cameron. He soon befriended then-restaurateur Randy Floss and others active in Merchants of Oak Ridge. For the last few years, he has served as treasurer of the business group after earlier serving as its president. Over the years, Tingen has contributed to the community in numerous other ways, including sponsoring youth sports teams and spirit nights when its stores donate a percentage of their sales to local school PTAs. His Domino’s restaurants have sponsored other events in recent months, such as the town of Oak Ridge’s self-guided tours of historic properties, and he’s also helped organize vendors for RidgeFest, according to Floss, who directs the annual festival co-sponsored by Merchants of Oak Ridge and the Town of Oak Ridge. “For his family, customers and community, Mickey’s always been there,” said Floss, a former owner of Bistro 150 in Oak Ridge Commons shopping center. He’s now part of a group, including Tingen, who meets for morning coffee at the restaurant. “I don’t think I’ve ever heard Mickey say ‘no,’” Floss said. “In fact, he probably says ‘yes’ too often.” “Your entrepreneurial motor is always running,” Tingen said. “How can we be more involved in the community in ways that might potentially raise top-end sales?” At the same time, he said, profit doesn’t drive his community engagement. “I don’t calculate the return on investment,” Tingen said. “I always feel obligated to do it. Somebody sponsored my ball team when I was a kid.”

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

NCDOT TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING REGARDING PROPOSED RAILROAD CROSSING GRADE SEPARATION OF THE NORTH CAROLINA RAILROAD IN GUILFORD COUNTY

STIP Project No. P-5713 GREENSBORO - The public is invited to a meeting with the N.C. Department of Transportation to discuss proposed Hilltop Rd. railroad crossing grade separation in Greensboro. The project converts the at-grade crossing of the North Carolina Railroad (NCRR)/Norfolk Southern Railway (NS) at Hilltop Rd. in Greensboro to a grade separation. The meeting will be held Feb. 1 at Gate City Baptist Church, 5250 Hilltop Rd., Greensboro. The public is invited to attend at any time between 4-7 p.m. Project details, including maps can be found on the NCDOT project web page: https://publicinput.com/Hilltop-RoadRail-Crossing The information will be presented at the meeting, allowing for one-on-one discussions with engineers. There will not be a formal presentation. People may also submit comments by phone at 984-205-6615 (project code 4649), email at Hilltop-Road-Rail-Crossing@ publicinput.com, or mail at the address shown below by Feb. 23. By Mail: Greg Blakney NCDOT Rail Division Senior Rail Project Development Engineer 1 S. Wilmington St. Raleigh NC 27601 NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled people who wish to participate in this meeting. Anyone requiring special services should contact Alecia Hardy, Environmental Analysis Unit, at 1598 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, N.C. 27699-1598, 919707-6072 or ext-arhardy@ncdot.gov as early as possible so arrangements can be made.

Those who do not speak English, or have a limited ability to read, speak or understand English, may receive interpretive services upon request prior by calling 1-800-481-6494.

Aquellas personas no hablan inglés, o tienen limitaciones para leer, hablar o entender inglés, podrían recibir servicios de interpretación si los solicitan llamando al 1-800-4816494.

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

REAL ESTATE/BUSINESS Q&A

REZONING DENIED...continued from p. 2

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

Workers recently cleared lifeless shrubbery, repaired fascia boards and made other repairs to the historic Moore house at the corner of Linville Road and N.C. 150 in Oak Ridge. Property owner Sam Anders is taking steps to stabilize the building while simultaneously moving forward with plans to construct a new office building for his accounting firm on the lot beside it. Recently I noticed a crew working at the historic Moore house, on the corner of Linville Road and N.C. 150 in Oak Ridge (diagonally across from the elementary school).

What’s the status of the house, and the two buildings beside it that I understand are going to be torn down? Property owner Sam Anders told us he received a Historic Preservation grant from Oak Ridge, which he is applying to the cost of stabilizing the Moore house and the lot it’s on; roofs have been cleaned, the exterior of the house has been soft-pressure washed, and some old, lifeless shrubbery has been dug up. Additionally, some of the fascia boards have been replaced, the tin roof has been secured and glass window panes will soon be installed so the building is kept dry.

“That’s the first phase,” Anders said. “We’re looking at applying for other grants and have had a few offers from folks with preservation groups who are willing to provide labor to paint the building if I pay for the paint.” Demolition is set to take place this spring on the white, one-story building beside the Moore house (which was most recently home to L&T Small Engine Repair) and the two-story brick building that once housed W.D. Grocery on the lower level with an apartment above it, Anders said. “That’s the first step in getting our new (office) building built,” Anders said, referring to the building that will be constructed beside the Moore house for his accounting business. “The goal is to have the building done and move into it by early fall,” he said. “The whole process of restoring the

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

...continued on p. 47

At its Jan. 9 meeting, Summerfield Town Council voted 4-1 to deny a rezoning application for four parcels totaling nearly 4.8 acres along U.S. 220, just south of N.C. 150. The owners had requested the property be rezoned from single-family residential (RS-30) and business (BN) districts to conditional zoning business (CZ-BN). ladies lie in the sun, in a bathing suit. It’s where they have their garden.” Ramifications of commercial development for residents would be “staggering,” said Summerfield Road homeowner Betty Ann Chandler. “Any business with traffic, car lights, security lights (and) noise is not appropriate for your backyard,” she told the council. “Ask yourself, would you want a convenience store, an automated car wash, a dollar store or a car repair shop in your backyard?” Although it lacks the authority of an ordinance, a resolution passed by the council nearly 25 years ago discouraged commercial development along U.S. 220 where the property is located. Its aim was to discourage commercial development on land abutting that of homeowners on Summerfield Road, according to Town Manager Scott Whitaker. Owners Matt Lewis and Ryan Hayes are seeking the rezoning of the four parcels to CZ-BN to accommodate retailers such as a hardware store and similar business establishments,

according to Bill Greco, principal of Land Solutions, a land surveying and design firm representing the owners. Three of the four parcels are currently zoned for residential (RS-30). The other tract, at roughly 1 ½ acres, is located at the corner of the intersection and is zoned for general business (GB). It is currently listed for sale by Linville Team Partners of Winston-Salem for $1.1 million. Potential buyers have expressed “no interest” for residential development of the property, Greco said. On the other hand, he said, there’s “a lot of interest from local business owners who want to be in Summerfield.” The rezoning application reduces the number of potential commercial uses of the corner lot, according to Greco. Combining the four parcels into a single tract would create space for other businesses, along with well and septic systems, he said. The end result would be “a reasonable-sized piece for commercial development,” Greco said.

have a real estate/businessrelated question or story suggestion? The Northwest • Totally local since 1996 emailObserver it to editor@nwobserver.com

OAK RIDGE town council

JAN. 4 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by CHRIS BURRITT OAK RIDGE – Mayor Jim Kinneman called the monthly meeting to order, with Mayor Pro Tem Mike Stone and council members Ann Schneider, Jim Harton and Michael Greeson present. Former Mayor Spencer Sullivan offered the invocation. Kinneman asked people to remember Oak Ridge resident Linda Yanusz, wife of former councilman and active community volunteer Danny Yanusz, who died Dec. 31 after a long illness; and Oak Ridge resident and Greensboro police Sgt. Philip Dale Nixon, who while off-duty was shot and killed Dec. 30 after approaching three people who were stealing five cases of beer from the Sheetz store on Sandy Ridge Road in Colfax.

PUBLIC SAFETY Sheriff’s Office. The District 1 office reported it responded to 132 calls in Oak Ridge in December, resulting in 11 formal case reports. No significant incidents or trends occurred during the month, according to the office. Fire Department. Assistant Chief Sam Anders reported the department responded to 104 calls last month; they included 41 rescue calls, a structure fire and a brush fire. Staff obtained 261.5 training hours. For all of 2023, the department responded to 1,012 calls, topping 1,000 annual calls for the first time, Anders said. Construction of the fire training tower behind Station No. 15 on Linville Road is moving ahead, according to Anders. The site has been graded and components have been delivered and are ready for assembly.

ORMA UPDATE

Steve Wilson, president of Oak Ridge Military Academy (ORMA), reported

the school is “thriving” with enrollment exceeding 100 students, up from 36 six years ago. ORMA signed 12 new recruits earlier this month, after last year dismissing four students “for various reasons,” Wilson said. The academy also turned down 70 applicants.

“We are not taking just anybody,” he said. “We are not a reform school. That’s the worst thing that we have to deal with. I hear parents (saying) all the time that ‘if you don’t be good, this is where I’m going to send you.’ We are trying to get away from that image.” Wilson noted that ORMA has survived as “the oldest high school boarding academy” in the U.S. after the closing of 13 military academies in recent years.

PUBLIC HEARING

Commercial rezoning request

 5  0 unanimously to rezone

1.27 acres on Haw River Road at Parkchester Place to allow the renovation and reopening of a gas station and convenience store. During a public hearing, Tim Shields said he and other nearby homeowners object to plans by the store’s new owner to remain open until 11 p.m. (See related article on p. 12.)

PUBLIC COMMENTS Bill Goebel said North Carolina’s legislature needs to increase funding

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

to public schools after focusing investments on the recruitment of new industries to the state. “For decades, we’ve underfunded our schools… through the state,” said Goebel, who served as a Republican on Guilford County’s school board for five months last year. He now faces a March 5 deadline to collect the approximately 2,300 signatures he needs to run for District 3 school board seat as an independent.

MANAGER’S REPORT

Committee appointments

 5  0 to appoint Martha

Pittman to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail Committee. By unanimous vote, the council appointed Paul Kress to the Board of Adjustment.

Town Park bleachers

 5  0 to declare bleachers at

Town Park’s ballpark No. 3 as surplus property, enabling the town to donate them to Oak Ridge Youth Association. The town plans to replace the old bleachers, described by Town Manager Bill Bruce as “very well used.”

Budget amendment

 5  0 to amend the town’s budget for the Veterans Honor Green. Bruce requested a contingency of $25,500 that would allow him to authorize minor price increases to keep construction

moving, without him needing to consult with the council beforehand. The contingency increases the budget for the project to $280,000.

Capital spending workshop. Bruce reminded the council that its annual meeting to review spending on capital projects is scheduled for Feb. 14, 2-4 p.m. At Kinneman’s suggestion, the council plans to hold a separate work session to discuss general topics, such as policies and procedures for appointing members to boards and committees. No meeting date was set.

OLD BUSINESS Farmhouse Community Center. The council decided to proceed with the renovation and expansion of the historic Redmon house into a community meeting place after discussing the possibility of halting the project due to rising costs. (See related article on FC.)

NEW BUSINESS

ORYA field usage agreement

 3  2 (Stone and Greeson

opposed) to approve the town’s annual field usage agreement with the Oak Ridge Youth Association (ORYA). The agreement incorporates some changes from last year, according to

...continued on p. 22

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OAK RIDGE TOWN COUNCIL ...continued from p. 21 Bruce, and adds the two fields planned for Heritage Farm Park as usable by ORYA.

per-payer fee and estimates that 1,000 out of towners will participate on ORYA teams this year.

The agreement also simplifies and streamlines the marketing and promotional materials the association produces to illustrate ORYA’s relationship with Oak Ridge.

The council is also requiring ORYA to provide team rosters showing whether players live in or outside of Oak Ridge.

Third, the agreement restructures the calculation of the fees paid by youth who live outside of Oak Ridge. Previously, ORYA collected $7 per season from each out-of-town player. Starting this year, the fee goes up to $12. The council gave ORYA two options to pay the town. As in the past, the association can collect per-player fees and pass them along to the town, or it can deduct $12,000 from the annual $30,000 stipend it pays Oak Ridge for field usage. The $12,000 reflects the $12

Stone and Greeson favored removing the user fee from the agreement, saying out-of-towners patronize Oak Ridge businesses and provide word-of-mouth endorsements of the park facilities.

“The association does more for the town than we do for it,” Stone said. He and Greeson voted against an amended motion to adopt the agreement, which was supported by Kinneman, Schneider and Harton.

It’s important for families of out-oftown players “to have some skin in the game,” Harton said. Although grants have helped pay for the town’s parks, Schneider said she’s against the “expenses of our athletic fields and new park construction being put only onto Oak Ridge town residents, with none of that burden going to non-residents.” “I think it’s a small ask,” said Kinneman, referring to the out-of-town fees. He noted that Oak Ridge charges out-of-town residents higher fees to rent shelters in the park, and he felt it was reasonable that out-of-town participants in ORYA programs should also pay more. Earlier in the meeting, Phyllis Anders, a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, urged the council to increase the out-of-town fees ORYA charges and noted that construction of Heritage Farm Park is going to give the association usage of two additional fields. The changes in the facility usage agreement between ORYA and the town drew criticism from Randy Collins, ORYA’s community relations director, who objected that the association’s board hadn’t been given a voice in the changes. At the time of the meeting, the agreement had not been signed by the two sides.

“That shouldn’t have been a hard line tonight, guys,” Collins said later in the meeting. “ORYA should still have had some say-so.”

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Collins added that requiring ORYA to provide players’ addresses is “a pain” for volunteer coaches. “Let’s think about these volunteers who are doing so much for the community,” he said. Later during public comments, Frank Carroll, who lives in Oak Ridge’s

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

ETJ (extraterritorial jurisdiction), cautioned that if the town requires player rosters, it’s responsible for the security of the information included on the rosters. Kinneman later noted that players’ names will be redacted from the rosters. Former councilman George McClellan said he favored increasing fees for out-of-towners. “I don’t think the taxpayers of Oak Ridge should subsidize non-residents,” he said. McClellan lost his Nov. 7 re-election bid, trailing Stone and Greeson in votes. During the meeting, he questioned why the two recently seated councilmen would sacrifice revenue for the town by proposing out-of-town player fees be waived completely.

“For a couple of guys who ran as fiscal conservatives, they sure have a funny way of showing it,” McClellan said. Water purchase agreement. The council agreed to consider approving during its Feb. 1 meeting an agreement with Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities. The agreement governs the utilities’ sale of as much as 350,000 gallons of water a day to Oak Ridge, as part of the town’s development of a municipal water system. The agreement provides “very favorable terms for our town,” Water Advisory Committee Chair Spencer Sullivan said later in the meeting.

Mountains-to-Sea Trail easement

 5  0 to schedule a public hearing

during next month’s meeting to gather input on whether the town should close an easement for the Mountainsto-Sea Trail in the Ashford subdivision under development on Brookbank Road. In recent months, some residents of the adjacent Bear Creek subdivision have objected to plans for the trail

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to pass near their houses.

COMMUNITY UPDATES Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Co-chair John Browning reported the board has begun planning for the installation of security cameras at Town Park and Heritage Farm Park entrances and exits. The project is being funded by a $140,000 grant from the county. Water Advisory Committee. Chair Spencer Sullivan reported that engineering plans for the elevated water storage tank behind Town Hall have been completed, while plans for the N.C. 150 water line from Kernersville to Oak Ridge are progressing. The town plans to seek state

approval of the tank design, Sullivan said. After approval, the town can seek bids from contractors to erect the tank.

Historic Preservation Commission. Commission member Barbara Engel reported the commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for the construction of a house on Williard Road. Special Events Committee. Chair Patti Dmuchowski reported the committee has raised more than $250,000 for the Veterans Honor Green. She thanked councilman Harton for his donation of $5,000 to the project (at last month’s meeting, newly elected Harton said he planned to donate his monthly council member stipend back to the town).

COUNCIL COMMENTS

Some council members continued discussion of the ORYA user agreement during their opportunity to make closing comments. Stone said ORYA’s Collins raised a “legitimate question” when he objected to the council changing the agreement without seeking feedback from ORYA and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. The two parties had negotiated the draft agreement for the council’s consideration. “Parks and Rec is advisory to council, and council gets to make the decision,” Schneider said, adding she believes the council is being “generous” in offering ORYA the option to pay out-of-town

fees by player or in a lump sum. “It’s been a long night, but I think it’s been a productive night,” Harton said. “2024 is going to be a great year for the town,” said Kinneman, noting that construction of Heritage Farm Park and the Veterans Honor Green are slated for completion this year. Greeson didn’t offer any comments. The meeting was adjourned at 9:53 p.m.

NEXT MEETING

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STOKESDALE town council

JAN. 11 / MEETING HIGHLIGHTS as reported by PATTI STOKES Stokesdale Town Council held its monthly meeting on Jan. 11, with Mayor Mike Crawford, Mayor Pro Tem Derek Foy and council members Jimmy Landreth, Jim Rigsbee and Tim Jones present. The town clerk, finance officer, and about 20 citizens were also in attendance, along with District 3 county commissioner Pat Tillman and school board representative Michael Logan.

PUBLIC SAFETY Fire Department. Stokesdale Fire Chief Todd Gauldin reported the department responded to 101 calls for service last month; of those, 53 were medical-related, 21 fire-related and 27 miscellaneous.

On a safety note, Gauldin urged people to be cautious when using alternative heating sources during this cold weather season. “Make sure you put kerosene, not any other fuel, in kerosene heaters. Periodically have your chimney checked. Don’t overload power strips,” he said. “And generators can be great, but also very dangerous. They are made to be used outside only, not in a garage or any other enclosed area.”

District 1 Office. Town Clerk Robbie Wagoner read a report provided by the sheriff’s District 1 office. According to the report, the office responded to 181 calls for service within the Stokesdale town limits last month, resulting

in 15 formal case reports; of the calls, 34 were related to burglar alarms going off, 27 involved traffic stops and 16 involved calls regarding suspicious activity. The report highlighted a few incidents, including one on Dec. 7 involving an aggravated assault that occurred after hours in the parking lot of the Petro gas station on U.S. 158. Another incident involving a residential breaking and entering that occurred Dec. 30 in the 8800 block of Hutchens Road remains under investigation.

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Wagoner gave a report on the town’s municipal water system that included the number of new meters installed and placed on hold by builders, and then followed that up with an administrative update and a monthly financial report provided by Finance Officer Kim Thacker.

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Property. Property Committee member and councilman Rigsbee reported the newly installed basketball and pickleball courts in the town park recently opened for play and are already getting regular use. Town Park Improvement. Chair Tee Stephenson reported the ground around the new courts showed no erosion after the recent heavy rain. The committee will resume its regular meeting schedule on Jan. 25, when it will discuss “accessories” for support of the courts, including security lighting, benches for people to sit on while waiting for their turn on a court, trash cans and ways to best manage and schedule use of the courts. Stephenson said the committee has received specs from a contractor for lighting the soccer field in the town park and the next major project it will focus on is the design and development of nature trails in the park.

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

CITIZEN COMMENTS Bob Whetstone introduced himself as the new manager of Forbis & Dick Funeral Home in Stokesdale and said he was happy to return to the area and looked forward to becoming involved in the community. Michael Logan, District 3 representative for Guilford County’s Board of Education, gave an update on the board’s plans to spend the $1.7 billion school bond voters approved in March 2022.

“… the majority of what was promised with the bond won’t happen,” Logan told the council. Referring to the board’s Facilities Master Plan released in 2019, Logan said plans to build a new, 1,200-seat northwest-area high school with an aviation technology magnet program have been taken off the priority list. “My understanding is, the high school is off the list and they’re going to a magnet program with GTCC,” Logan said. “We still need those seats within the high school.” Replacing Northwest Middle School is also in the facilities master plan; Logan said $2.25 million of the $7.5 million allotted for that project has been committed for purchasing land, and $66,756 has been spent thus far. “Where they are at in that process, as a board member I will not know until they come to us with an option for buying the land,” he said. The master plan calls for tearing down the middle school and using the land to expand the high school for green space. “From a taxpayer’s point of view, we need to be repairing our schools and not tearing them down,” Logan said.

...continued on p. 28

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THANK YOU

We extend our deepest gratitude for the generosity of the donors and volunteers who served the families at The Christmas Store this year. With your help, we provided over 3000 new items – including toys, clothing, toiletries, and an abundance of food – to more than 350 local children from the Guilford Backpack Ministry program this Christmas. What a blessing you are to our community!

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STOKESDALE TOWN COUNCIL MEETING ...continued from p. 26

“Can we prove a case for equal protection under the law?” Jones asked. “If the school board is deliberately shortchanging this part of the county, that seems to be illegal.” Logan responded that Dr. Oakley, Guilford County Schools superintendent, has said “the money will be spent where it’s needed the most, not by who screams the loudest.” Foy noted the $1.7 billion education bond approved by voters in 2022 was the largest education bond in North Carolina at that time. Regarding the proposed 1,200-seat

high school for the northwest area, Foy asked, “Are you saying that isn’t going to happen?” “As I understand, the aviation portion will be worked into GTCC; as far as the high school, that has either been pushed down the list or removed,” Logan responded. “And on the facility master plan, one objective was to eliminate all trailers – but now that the bond has passed, that’s not on the plan?” Foy asked, to which Logan responded, “I won’t say no, but I don’t see it on the plan.”

Logan then encouraged council members to attend a meeting of the Joint Capital/Facilities Planning Committee, made up of county commissioners and Board of Education (BOE) representatives appointed by the commissioners’ chair and BOE chair. The meeting will be on Jan. 24 at 3 p.m., and although attendees won’t be able to participate, Logan indicated their presence would be noted.

Presentation from Sebastian King. King, owner of the lobbying firm King and Co., introduced himself and said, “I’m here from the private sector and I’m here to help.” He said his firm will guarantee a return on investments from municipalities, and that it will get “meaningful results.” “Municipalities that have lobbyists have a 300% return on their investment,” King told the council.

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Jones said he didn’t know a lot about the lobbyist industry, and asked how it was regulated. King responded his industry is governed by state statutes. “If we give you taxpayer money, where does that go?” Jones then asked. “I don’t want our money used to wine and dine politicians, and I don’t want to feel like we have to pay for representation that we should already be getting.”

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“I suggested we punt for 30 days and give towns time before we voted on that,” Tillman said, adding that the proposed tax on prepared food is getting a lot of attention and will be coming before the commissioners soon for a vote. “I’m against it,” he said. “It’s not an innovative approach – it’s lazy. I would be more in favor of a ¼-cent sales tax, which is spread out over everyone.” Tillman also addressed council members’ questions about the need in the northwest area for more schools and facility repairs and upgrades. Confirming the county spends 54% of its budget on schools, he said, “It’s so much money, and there is no excuse… We’ve got to do better; we can’t have trailers.” “Thank you and please come back,” Stokesdale Town Council members told Tillman.

He said he is in Raleigh 24/7, his firm specializes in securing state (rather than federal) funding, and it represents several municipalities and industries, including members of the furniture industry.

In other business, the council voted to have Duke Energy install two light poles with security lights for the newly completed basketball and pickleball courts in the town park, deferred until next month a decision to replace existing lighting on the soccer field with LED lights, and renewed its contract with Hunter Enterprises for athletic field maintenance in the park.

Council discussion with Pat Tillman. District 3 county commissioner Pat Tillman attended the meeting at the request of councilman Tim Jones, who told him, “I just wanted to be sure if there was anything sneaking up on us, you could give us a heads-up.”

The council meeting adjourned at 9:46 p.m. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on Thursday, Feb. 8, beginning 7 p.m. in Stokesdale Town Hall. The agenda will be posted prior to the meeting on the town’s website at www.stokesdale.org.

“Towns that have good members in general assembly still need support,” King responded.

Join us for our next monthly meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 6,

Tillman answered questions about the county’s consideration of increasing its fee for collecting municipalities’ property taxes. Although this would not directly affect Stokesdale since it does not charge a property tax, it would affect the town’s fire department as well as neighboring communities in the northwest area that do charge a property tax.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

STALLED PROJECTS ...continued from p. 1

Summerfield” sign proposed for U.S. 220 at Strawberry Road. So far, the town has spent $6,670 on the sign, pushing costs for stalled and abandoned projects to nearly $434,000 in recent years, according to Dee Hall, the town’s finance officer.

historic Laughlin school, as part of a preliminary investigation of renovating the space for a new town hall. • $64,800 to create a land use plan that’s still in the works.

Separately, going back to 2004, the council spent $108,121 on architectural plans for a new town hall next to Summerfield Fire District’s station No. 9 on Summerfield Road. “This amount is what the town paid Like other town hall projects, that one didn’t materialize. that will never produce an asset for During the council’s meeting earlier the town” unless the council decides this month, town staff expressed to move forward with the sign or surprise at opposition to the proposed other delayed projects, Hall wrote in a Jan. 11 email to Summerfield Strong, a “Welcome to Summerfield” because the council had approved the project local Facebook group. three years ago. This fiscal year’s Frustrated by the council’s rejecbudget includes $75,000 for the sign. tion of the proposed sign contract for The council’s approval of the as much as $78,027, Town Manager project had a caveat suggested by Scott Whitaker asked, “can someDeVaney: that staff explore incorpobody take the lead on that and not rating brick in the design of the sign have me put any more effort into the sign? We’ve been talking about a town of stacked stone and aluminum. After determining that brick would increase welcome sign for a long time.” the cost of the project, Whitaker told Mayor Pro Tem Lynne Williams the council that in 2022 he sought DeVaney agreed to take charge of the bids for the project that excluded brick. project, with a focus on reducing the The bids came in well over cost and creating a new design with $75,000, prompting Whitaker to community involvement, possibly by “value engineer” the project in minor school students. ways and seek new bids last year. In her email, Hall listed five projects The Carolina Signsmith based in “we have started and abandoned” or northern Greensboro offered to erect have yet to complete in recent years. the sign for $78,027. Whitaker offered Summerfield’s investments are as to circle back to the company to try follows: to reduce the cost to $75,000 if the • $137,438.95 to purchase the historic council instructed him to do so. Gordon Hardware building and In a recent memo to the council, investigate converting it into a new Whitaker said “given the time and town hall or meeting space. The resources invested into the project, town sold the building for $84,680 the second round of bidding, and the earlier this month. goal to complete the project this fiscal • $112,539.80 to buy the historic Mar- year,” he recommended the council tin house and explore turning it into approve the proposed contract. a town museum or historic site. The The manager pointed out that town sold the house for $74,500 last hiring The Carolina Signsmith, which year. is partnering with another local • $268,207.03 for the design and company, Piedmont Stone, adheres other costs to build a new town hall to recommendation of the town’s on the northern Gordon tract at purchasing ordinance to hire local U.S. 220 and N.C. 150. vendors when possible. The Northwest Observer • Totally 1996 “There are alocal lot ofsince good reasons • $3,500 for an appraisal of the

to do this,” Whitaker told the council. “The question is whether you’re ready to pull the trigger at the price?” DeVaney, Robinson and newly seated Jonathan Hamilton and Heath Clay offered a variety of objections to the sign. As a group, they questioned the design, size, cost and location of the sign. As presently designed, it measures roughly 18 feet by eight feet and will be lighted, improving visibility to motorists traveling on U.S. 220 at the southern entrance to Summerfield, according to Whitaker.

The manager explained that the use of rock in the sign matches the sign at Summerfield Athletic Park. However, DeVaney said brick would better represent the town’s historic buildings.

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DeVaney suggested that youth, such as college design students, contribute ideas to the sign’s design. Hamilton and Robinson said they favor community input as well. “I’d like to make sure that the community likes it,” said Robinson, explaining she favors a smaller, less expensive sign incorporating brick “that looks like Summerfield.” “For $75,000, I hope that we could have two signs,” Clay said. The sign is located in the Lake Brandt watershed, requiring town staff to negotiate a land easement agreement with the city of Greensboro and Guilford County, Whitaker said. Even though the sign wouldn’t be located in Summerfield, Robinson said its design should adhere to the town’s sign regulations. Those rules would require a smaller sign, said planning manager Brad Rentz.

The use of rock, she said, seems better suited for Blowing Rock, a resort town near Boone. “Since we sat on this for so long, I think we need a different sign that is more in keeping with the town,” DeVaney said. “I really think we need something that is more like what I

think we are.”

John Doggett was the lone council member to vote against rejecting the sign. He told fellow council members that “we spent money on the design. That’s wasted money if we go away from the design now. Everyone ran on being fiscally responsible with the money. You just throw the money away.”

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Oak Ridge Road, is hosting a GriefShare meeting every Monday starting at 10 a.m. Each week, this support group will watch a video seminar about moving through the grieving process, followed by a discussion. Learn more at www.griefshare.org, or call (336) 643-5201.

MONDAY, JAN. 22 z Stokesdale Community Choir | Stokesdale Com-

munity Choir will resume practice Jan. 22, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Gideon Grove United Methodist Church, 2865 Gideon Grove Church Road. Contact Sondra Beene, (336) 453-8017, to learn more or join. z Lions Club | Oak Ridge Lions Club will kick off the

new year with a social gathering on Jan. 22 in the Oak Ridge Room (beside Bistro 150 in Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center) from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Anyone interested in learning more about the Lions Club or in joining the club is invited to attend as a guest. More info: Jim Kinneman, (336) 207-7166 or james.kinneman@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, JAN. 27 z Food pantry | Good Samaritan Ministries’ food

Sunday Singing event Jan. 28, starting at 6 p.m. at Flat Rock United Methodist Church, 6720 U.S. 158 in Stokesdale. Groups from local churches will sing and play instruments, with light refreshments to follow. An offering to support Good Samaritan Ministries will be taken. More info: (336) 643-5887.

THURSDAY, FEB. 1 z Town Council meeting | Oak Ridge Town Council will meet Feb. 1, starting at 7 p.m. at Oak Ridge Town Hall, 8315 Linville Road. Attend in person or view the meeting on the town’s YouTube channel (a link to the recorded meeting will also be posted on the town’s Facebook page). Visit www.oakridgenc.com for more info or a meeting agenda.

TUESDAY, FEB. 6 z Kiwanis Club | Kiwanis Club of Northwest Guil-

ford, a nonprofit that engages in projects focused on children in our community, will meet Feb. 6, 12 noon at Bill’s Pizza, 1431 N.C. 68 in Oak Ridge. More info: nwgkiwanis@gmail.com. z SMA | Summerfield Merchants Association (SMA),

which focuses on supporting local businesses, nonprofits and the Summerfield community, invites professionals who live in Summerfield or represent a business or nonprofit based in Summerfield to a meeting Feb. 6, 6:15 to 8 p.m. Learn more about SMA or RSVP to attend the meeting at www.summerfieldmerchant.com. z Friends of Stokesdale | Friends of Stokesdale, a

pantry in Stokesdale will open for those in need of food on Jan. 27, 9 to 10:30 a.m. at a new location: Gideon Grove United Methodist Church, 2865 Gideon Grove Church Road. To receive assistance or to make a donation to the ministry, contact Terri Johnson, (336) 643-5887 or terrij1957@yahoo.com.

nonprofit committed to preserving Stokesdale’s history and downtown charm, invites those with similar interests to its monthly meeting Feb. 6, 7 to 8 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. For more info, visit www.facebook.com/friendsofstokesdale or call Joe Thacker, president, at (336) 708-0334.

SUNDAY, JAN. 28

FEB. 7, 8, 13 & 15

z Fourth Sunday Singing | Good Samaritan Minis-

z Senior programs | Senior Resources of Guilford

tries of Stokesdale invites the community to a Fourth

County will sponsor a senior program including activities

NORTHWEST Loving care for pets ANIMAL HOSPITAL (336) 643-8984

and their families

Full-service medicine, surgery and dentistry Surgical and therapeutic laser Acupuncture and ultrasound

Wendy Camp, DVM | Tina Becker, DVM 1692-J NC Hwy 68 N, Oak Ridge • (336) 643-8984 www.nw-animal-hospital.com

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

and a take-home lunch from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon on Feb. 7 at Oak Ridge First Baptist Church (2445 Oak Ridge Road); on Feb. 8 at Stokesdale United Methodist Church (8305 Loyola Drive); on Feb. 13 at Shady Grove Wesleyan Church (119 N. Bunker Hill Road in Colfax); and on Feb. 15 at Summerfield First Baptist Church (2300 Scalesville Road). To learn more and/or RSVP, call (336) 373-4816, ext. 265.

THURSDAY, FEB. 8 z Town Council meeting | Stokesdale Town Coun-

cil will meet Feb. 8, starting at 7 p.m. at Stokesdale Town Hall, 8325 Angel Pardue Road. Citizens may attend in person, or view the meeting on the town’s YouTube channel. Visit www.stokesdale.org for a meeting agenda.

FRIDAY, FEB. 9 z Veterans’ Coffee | Bethel Methodist Church at

8424 Haw River Road in Oak Ridge invites local veterans to a monthly event for coffee and fellowship Feb. 9, starting at 8:30 a.m. More info: Larry McDonald, (336) 215-3141.

MONDAY, FEB. 12 z Northwest Guilford Woman’s Club | NWGWC is

a nonprofit with members including women from all walks of life who share a commitment to community service. The group will hold its monthly meeting Feb. 12, starting at 7 p.m. To learn more about NWGWC or to attend the meeting as a guest, contact Tiffany Hansen, president, at (336) 404-8038 or tiffanykhansen96@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, FEB. 13 z Town Council meeting | Summerfield Town Council

will meet Feb. 13, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Summerfield Community Center, 5404 Centerfield Road. The meeting will be livestreamed on the Town’s Facebook page. Visit www.summerfieldnc.gov for a meeting agenda.

it ’s a piece of cake submitting your calendar event is just a few clicks away Go to nwobserver.com, select “community calendar” on the main menu, then “event submission” from the dropdown menu. Once approved, your event will appear online AND be considered for our print edition. Deadline for inclusion in print is ... 9 a.m. on Monday before each Thursday paper

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Ordinary people, Extraordinary impact “You give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.” – Kahlil Gibran

by ANNETTE JOYCE When Tee Stephenson moved to Stokesdale about seven years ago, he decided he wanted to be actively involved in his new community and make a difference. He started out by regularly attending town council meetings and volunteering to help here and there. Eventually, he was asked to join the Town Park Improvement Committee, an invitation he eagerly accepted. Ironically, though the retired Stephenson spent his career in the insurance industry, his degree from N.C. State University is in Parks and Recreation Administration. As chair of the Town Park Improvement Committee, Stephenson has worked with fellow volunteer committee members to use funds the town received from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to plan and bring about significant changes to Stokesdale Town Park. Because of their efforts, the park now offers pickleball and basketball courts, which opened a few weeks ago and are already very popular. The group is now turning its attention to developing nature trails within the town park and making improvements to the soccer fields. Stephenson finds a lot of personal satisfaction in seeing the results of his committee’s efforts. “I enjoy watching the kids on the playground and the smiles on their faces,” he said. “It’s great to see the adults on the pickleball courts doing something that’s healthy and enjoyable.”

Two years ago, Stephenson offered to join the town’s Events Committee, which organizes the annual Christmas parade. This year he focused on securing sponsors and new entries for the event – two responsibilities he enjoys because of the opportunity they provide to get to know more people. On parade day he happily handled the line-up and enjoyed talking with parade participants as they arrived and got set up. He’s already looking ahead to next year and thinking about how he can attract a few high school marching bands to participate in the parade. Having served as an alternate on the Planning and Zoning Board, Stephenson was recently appointed as a full-time member. Along with his multiple roles with the town, he also serves on the advisory board of North Ridge Property Owners Association in Stokesdale. A hands-on person, Stephenson never shies away from taking on responsibility to accomplish a task or make a positive difference. Noting that he often hears people complain without taking any action, he said, “I want to be part of the solution, not part of the problem.” While Stephenson oversees many major projects, he’s just as happy taking care of the smaller issues. For instance, he’s been known to fill up the doggie bag stations at the park after seeing someone complain on social media that they were empty. He also helped town staff put up the lights on the town’s Christmas tree this year and later took them down himself.

Photo by Annette Joyce/NWO

Stokesdale’s Tee Stephenson enjoys seeing the results of his volunteer efforts

Since moving to Stokesdale seven years ago, Tee Stephenson has been fulfilling his goal of making a difference in his town.

“Tee is so willing to help in the community without even being asked. Whatever’s needed, he volunteers,” said Priscilla Hunsucker, Stokesdale’s water system customer manager. “You can count on him no matter what the task – whether it’s driving to Raleigh to look at what other towns offer with their playgrounds or monitoring the work that’s going on at the park, he’s happy to volunteer.” When he’s not volunteering, this outgoing 70-year-old loves to shag dance and he and his wife, Nancy, spend much of their free time socializing with friends and showing off their fancy dance moves. While they do travel to places where they can dance to beach music, they usually find their way to Rio Grande in Madison a couple times every month to dance the evening away on shag dancing night.

Thanks to Tire Max for sponsoring this monthly feature in which we recognize “ordinary” people in our readership area who make an extraordinary impact on others. To nominate an “ordinary” person for this feature, email editor@nwobserver.com with their name, a detailed description of how they positively impact others, and your contact info. Stokesdale

7705 Highway 68 N (336) 441-8066

Summerfield

4420 US Highway 220N (336) 793-5391

Madison

706 Burton Street (336) 548-6674

High Point

619 McDonald Court (336) 885-4321

High Point

2410 Eastchester Dr (336) 841-6553

Eden

406 N. Bridge Street (336) 627-9400

The mata mata turtle uses its wide mouth like a vacuum to suck up small fish and invertebrates!

Thank you to Greensboro Science Center for sponsoring this issue’s Kids’ Korner

MATA MATA TURTLES

Leaf or turtle? Mata mata turtles are aquatic turtles that live in the rivers and swamps of South America. They come in neutral shades of gray, brown, black and dark green. They also have a lot of texture to their bodies including skin flaps, ridges, barbels and tubercles. This combination of color and texture makes them look like leaves and tree bark floating in the river, camouflaging them from predators.

Kids’ Korne

Find the

10 differences

welcome to ... youth link

A regular section in the Northwest Observer focused on the youthful matters of northwest Guilford County

Former student-athletes inducted into NWHS’s Athletics HOF

Since its debut last year, 21 former studentathletes, coaches and contributors to Northwest Guilford High School’s athletic program have been inducted into the school’s Athletics Hall of Fame

that was tasked with creating NWHS’s Athletics Hall of Fame. The primary goal is to honor former athletes and coaches who achieved remarkable feats during their time at the school and beyond, as well as individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to the school’s athletic program. The first 15 inductees into the Hall of Fame were honored at a ceremony in January 2023, and the six athletes listed below were inducted last week:

by PATTI STOKES

Hayley Barber: basketball

NW GUILFORD – Northwest Guilford High School (NWHS) inducted six former athletes to its Athletics Hall of Fame last Friday, Jan. 12, during halftime of the boys basketball game. The recent addition of new members brings the total count to 21 inductees since the establishment of a board in the fall of 2022

Named the 2015-16 Piedmont Triad 4A Player of the Year, Hayley Barber led Northwest High School to a 30-1 record and a state runners-up finish. She was named to the NCBCA (N.C. Basketball Coaches Association) All-District team twice and to the NCBCA All-State 2nd team in 2016. She was a three-time

all-conference player, and a News and Record All-Area Player of the Year in 2016. While in high school she scored 1,120 career points and garnered additional accolades while playing at Campbell University. After earning her undergraduate degree from Campbell, Barber received her master’s in Intelligence and Security Studies from the Citadel in South Carolina. She now lives in Nashua, New Hampshire, where she is an en-route air traffic controller at Boston Air Route Traffic Control Center (located in Nashua.)

Jay Goldsmith: lacrosse Jay Goldsmith was a four-time allconference, four-time Piedmont Triad 4A Player of the Year, and four-time allstate selection. He was also named an All-American in 2010 and 2011. Goldsmith led the state in scoring his

senior year and ranks 4th overall in points in state history. He was the NCHSAA Championship Game MVP while leading the Vikings to their only lacrosse state championship. After high school, Goldsmith attended Lynchburg College before transferring to Lenoir-Rhyne University, where he graduated in 2015 with a degree in health and physical education. During his time at Lenoir-Rhyne, he was a two-year starter for the university’s lacrosse team; he finished his career with the school’s singlegame goal record with seven and was drafted by the Charlotte Hounds of the MLL. He went on to coach lacrosse at the collegiate level at various universities and was hired as assistant coach/ offensive coordinator at the University

...continued on p. 35

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• In-state tuition and college/course fees are 100% covered. • $500,000 is available for full-time or part-time enrollment at GTCC.

gtcc.edu/accessamazing The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

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INDUCTEES ...continued from p. 33 of Tampa last fall.

Matt Price: basketball, baseball, football and soccer

Reynolds & Stoner

During his time at Northwest, Matt Price was allconference four times in soccer, three times in football, twice in basketball and once in baseball. He was also named to Tthe OR H News O D Oand N TRecord I C S All-Area team in soccer and football and was a 1997 Triad 3A player of the year in soccer and All-state selection for soccer in 1996 and 1997. After being accepted to Wake Forest University, the four-sport athlete placed his focus on baseball, and was a three-year starter for the Deacons’ baseball team, ending his college career with a .300 batting average. During his college career he was a member of three ACC Championship teams.

Ron Shelton: basketball, baseball, football Ron Shelton was a two-year starter in basketball, a team member of the 1966 NCHSAA 2A State runner-up team and a starter on the 1967 NCHSAA

Don’t let anything stop you from getting a great smile, which can give you confidence, but may be hard to afford. We offer 0% financing for orthodontics, so you can get the smile you want without breaking the bank. Whether you need braces, Invisalign, or any other treatment, we have the right option for you. At our private practice, you will get personalized attention from our experienced doctors. Call or text today! 3A State Championship team. In his senior year, he scored a then-school-record 542 points. He was named All-Conference and All-County two years in basketball, and was a three-year starter in basketball for Catawba College. While in high school Shelton was also a three-year starter in baseball and was all-conference and allcounty his junior and senior seasons. He was a key contributor on the 1968 NC American Legion State Baseball Championship team. Shelton was a three-year starter in football as well, and played quarterback, wide receiver, safety, and handled all kicking duties. He had 10 career interceptions during his high school career and was named All-Conference and All-County his senior year.

Traci Stewart: volleyball and basketball Traci Stewart was an All-Area Player of the Year in 2006 and 2007 in volleyball, a Metro 4A player of the year in 2006 and 2007 and two-time tournament MVP. She led Northwest to a 30-4 record her senior year as the team advanced to the 4th round of the state playoffs. She was a member of the 2007 Piedmont Junior Olympic Volleyball Team.

Healthy Smiles. Happy Patients.

Stewart received a full scholarship to play at Elon, where she was conference rookie of the year, two-time all-conference, and SOCON All-Academic.

Tre Turner: football and basketball Two-sport athletic standout Tre Turner had 123 career receptions, 2,614 receiving yards, and 31 touchdowns while playing football at Northwest. He was a two-time High School Extra All-Area receiver, three-time All-Conference, and All State player his senior year. Turner averaged 17 points a game playing basketball for Northwest and was a three-time all-conference player. He was selected to the News and Record and High School Extra All-Area teams in 2016. He received a full scholarship to play football at Virginia Tech. While at VT, he amassed 134 career receptions and 2,292 receiving yards, both ranking fifth in the school history. He was named ACC wide receiver of the week as well as Reese’s Offensive Player of the week and earned All-ACC 2nd team in 2020. email your youth news to :

editor@nwobserver.com

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The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

youth link Hiding your smile? We can help! Matthew J. Olmsted, DDS MS Oak Ridge Commons Shopping Center 2205 Oak Ridge Road, Suite CC (336) 441-7007

olmstedorthodontics.com We are OPEN and accepting new patients

‘Into the Woods’ A journey of Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, Jack and his Beanstalk and the Witch, with performances Feb. 1-3 Information for this article provided by

JACOB LUCK,

NWMS theatre arts director

NW GUILFORD – Northwest Drama will offer Greensboro an amusingly different way to think about everyone’s favorite fairy tale characters through its production of “Into the Woods JR.” The show featuring 80 students in grades 6 through 12 and two dynamic casts of actors premieres on Thursday, Feb. 1, with additional performances on Friday, Feb. 2, and Saturday, Feb. 3, at 7 p.m. each evening. Tickets are $10 and will be available to purchase at the door. With a book by James Lapine and music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, “Into the Woods JR.” is based on the Broadway production which won several Tony Awards, including Best Score, Best Book and Best Actress in

a Musical. The musical follows a baker and his wife who learn they’ve been cursed with childlessness by the Witch next door. The couple embarks on a quest – swindling, deceiving and stealing from such already-victimized characters as Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel and Jack (fresh off the beanstalk!) – to get the special objects required to break the spell.

However, the story doesn’t simply end “happily ever after,” as each character must now face the consequences of his/her decision. This production features almost 90 active thespians on stage and behind the scenes, and all are students at Northwest Guilford Middle, Northwest Guilford High School and Kernodle Middle. PERFORMERS are: Baker: Noah Marsh, Van Gilbert; Baker’s wife: Ava

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

Wilson, Jadyn Palmer (understudy); Witch: Zara Lancaster, Ash Burgess (understudy); Cinderella: Ellie Duncan, Amelia Winter (understudy); Jack: Isaac Duncan, Sawyer Morton; Little Red Riding Hood: Ava Pike, Jazz Hilton; Narrators: Abi Teague, Hannah Marsh, Owen Rodriguez, Rory Goss; Milky White: Lindsey Smith, Ava Hepler; Rapunzel: Jessica Smith, Ansley LeCompte; Cinderella’s prince: Dylsony Dang, Zane Campbell; Rapunzel’s prince: Atticus Burgess, Mason Lewis; Jack’s mother: Marsh-Meagan Brady; Granny: Calla Campbell, Kinley Martin; Cinderella’s father: Grady Jones, Charlie Bradford; Cinderella’s mother: Audrey Benson, Jadyn Palmer; Cinderella’s stepmother: Amelia Winter, Gigi Bouthiette; Lucinda and Florinda: Julia Saunders, Avantika Goparaju, Peyton Haulter, Isabella Ramnath; Mysterious man: Van Gilbert, Reece Biggs; Steward: Chase

Abbott, Will Martin; Wolf: Jake Wear, Van Gilbert: Vocal ensemble: Arjun Pisharody, Chloe Zittling, Clare Carter, Cy Kolarcyzk, Ella Salinkov, Elena Mormile-Camacho, Gabriella Morris, Hunter Ferguson, Kaylee Castrey, Layla Thompson, Maddie Yong, Reagan Gillman and Riley Watts. PRODUCTION CREW: Kate Beals, Cadence Clowney, Belle Beutler, Daniella Chavez, Johanna Cisneros, Kate

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

District 3 candidate I am running unaffiliated because I believe the School Board and judicial races need to be non-partisan.

I’d love to come speak at your local community event. A few topic ideas include:

Photo courtesy of Northwest Little Theatre

A crew member is hard at work on part of the set for the upcoming production of “Into the Woods,” to be performed by Northwest Middle, Northwest High and Kernodle Middle students on Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 1-3, 7 p.m. each evening in Northwest High School’s auditorium.

Cohan, Lawson Grady, Nex Guinn, Kendall Hipsher, Grace Howle, Anastastia Jvanets, Meredith Konze, Emery Lewis, Lyla Lyman, Savannah Mattei, Kara Michel, Cam Moore, Alejandra Parra, Ethan Pipe, Avery Reece, Alexis Roberts, Chelsea Smith, Raechel Smith, Quinn Smythe, Jada Travis and Kaelyn Yarborough. Artistic director: Jacob Charles Luck; Production manager: William Stapleton; Musical director: Nicholas Shoaf; Choreographer: Autumn Eudy. Northwest Drama programs are sponsored and supported by Carruthers & Roth, P.A., Elizabeth Hepler Speech Therapy, PLLC, Maureena Shepherd & Associates, Allen Tate/Broker, Northwest Observer,

The Phoenix Edge PLLC, Ramilya Siegel/Realtor, The Jumping BeanA Coffee Drive-Thru, Tire Max, and Olmsted Orthodontics. “Into the Woods JR.” is presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

want to go? “Into the Woods” will be performed at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 1, Friday, Feb. 2, and Saturday, Feb. 3, in Northwest High School’s auditorium, 5240 Northwest School Road, Greensboro. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door. For more info, visit Northwest Little Theatre’s Facebook page or email luckj@gcsnc.com.

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

• • • • • •

• A look behind current Guilford County Schools from a school board member’s perspective • Boy Scouts of America – Where does it go in 2024/25? • How to change your business culture • Skills gap in America and N.C. • Customized Industrial Training Grants and Toyota and Boom • 19 interesting facts about Guilford County Schools Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and helping youth develop resilience to them Youth Protection for youth-serving organizations How to get involved in your local community ACEs-Informed Court and Chief Justice’s Task Force What it was like to work in U.S. Congress when it was functional Jackson/Vanik Amendment in U.S. Congress and how it freed 1.2 million Christians, Jews and Muslims from the Soviet Union

Call or email me to set up a time for us to discuss your community event. 336.202.6485

bill@goebelforcommonground.com www.goebelnc.com paid by Citizens for Common Ground JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

CRIME / INCIDENT report

District 1 Sheriff’s Office

has recently responded to the following incidents in northwest/northern Guilford County ... The District 1 office, one of three district offices in Guilford County, encompasses Oak Ridge, Summerfield, Stokesdale, Colfax and northwest and northern Greensboro. It is bounded by Rockingham County on the north, runs east along U.S. 29 South, west along Forsyth County and south along the Greensboro city limits.

ACCIDENTAL SHOOTING

With over 100 vendors, you can always find something Fun and Unique!

Join us for Ladies’ Night! March 7, 6-9pm

Community Yard Sale

April 13, 7am - 1pm

Springapalooza May 4-5, 11am-4pm

Dec. 26 | A resident of the 7600 block of Deboe Road in Summerfield (near I-73 N) reported she had a gunshot wound from an accidental shooting.

ASSAULT/DOMESTIC Dec. 20 | Law enforcement officers responded to a reported assault in the 8300 block of Coldwater Road in Stokesdale (off U.S. 158). Dec. 21 | Officers responded to a reported domestic incident in the 5800 block of Stanley Huff Road in Summerfield (off Bunch Road). Dec. 25 | A 26-year-old male was arrested in the 7000 block of Carriage Cove Drive in Oak Ridge (off Oak Ridge Road) for assault on a female. Dec. 25 | Officers responded to a reported assault and vandalism in the 5600 block of Ashview Court in Summerfield (near I-73 N); the damages to a door frame and a picture frame totaled $230.

4537 US Hwy 220 N,

Summerfield

Dec. 25 | Officers responded to a reported physical altercation in the 800 block of N.C. 150 W in northern Greensboro.

(336) 643-6994 Mon-Sat 10-6 & Sun 12-6

Dec. 25 | A 39-year-old male was arrested in the 3200 block of Pleasant Ridge Road in northwest Greensboro for assault on a female. Dec. 28 | A 76-year-old male was

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

arrested in the 3200 block of Clarkson Road in northwest Greensboro (off Fleming Road) for assault after pointing a gun at another person.

Jan. 8 | Officers responded to a reported domestic incident in the 7900 block of Fogleman Way in Oak Ridge (near N.C. 68 N).

Dec. 29 | Officers responded to a reported domestic incident in the 6700 block of Polo Farms Drive in Summerfield (off Strawberry Road).

BREAKING & ENTERING

Jan. 3 | Officers responded to a reported assault in the 7700 block of Chesterbrooke Drive in northern Greensboro (off N.C. 150 W). Jan. 5 | A 22-year-old male was arrested in the 7600 block of Kristen Drive in Oak Ridge (near N.C. 68 N) for simple assault, assault on a law enforcement officer and obstruction of justice.

Jan. 12 | A 43-year-old male was arrested in the 4500 block of Ellisboro Road in Stokesdale for three counts of breaking and entering, three counts of larceny after breaking and entering and injury to personal property

DEATH INVESTIGATION Dec. 31 | Officers conducted a death investigation in the 7800 block of Grey Fox Road in Oak Ridge (off Oak Ridge Road).

Trust. Compassion. Respect.

Proudly serving generations of families in northwest Guilford County and beyond for over 75 years.

Robert “Bob” Whetstone Stokesdale Chapel Funeral Director/Manager 8320 US Highway 158 | (336) 643-3711

Locally owned and operated • forbisanddick.com The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

FOUND PROPERTY

OVERDOSE

Dec. 29 | An employee of Gas Town gas station in Summerfield turned in one counterfeit $100 bill to officers.

Jan. 7 | Officers responded to a report of attempted suicide via narcotics overdose in the 7600 block of Addison Drive in Summerfield (near U.S. 220 N).

Jan. 6 | Officers responded to a report of a tan Springfield Armory handgun and twelve bullets found in the 7700 block of Chesterbrooke Drive in northern Greensboro (off N.C. 150 W).

FRAUD Dec. 25 | A resident of the 7300 block of Prentiss Road in northwest Greensboro (off Pleasant Ridge Road) reported an unknown suspect defrauded her of $349.75. Jan. 3 | A resident of the 4500 block of Fence Drive in northwest Greensboro (off Edgefield Road) reported an unknown suspect fraudulently used his personal identification information.

HARASSMENT Dec. 28 | A resident of the 7600 block of Henson Forest Drive in Summerfield (off Oak Ridge Road) reported receiving harassing phone calls from a known suspect.

MISSING PERSON Jan. 6 | Officers responded to a report of a missing person in the 5500 block of Whispering Pines Drive in Summerfield (near U.S. 220 N).

THEFT Dec. 15 | A resident of the 7300 block of Autumn Lake Drive in Summerfield (off N.C. 150 W) reported an unknown suspect entered his residence via the back door and stole 17 pieces of fine jewelry and designer fashion accessories, worth about $132,000 altogether. Dec. 20 | A construction worker on a construction site in the 2000 block of Dock Ridge Drive in Stokesdale (off N.C. 68 N) reported an unknown suspect stole a light fixture and a dishwasher, worth $1,500 altogether. Dec. 21 | An employee of Lowes Foods in Oak Ridge reported an unknown suspect shoplifted four bottles of wine and some assorted flowers. Dec. 21 | A citizen at AAA Self Storage on Pleasant Ridge Road in northwest Greensboro reported an unknown suspect cut through a lock on a storage unit and stole a weedeater, five pairs of shoes and a fire pit, worth $400 altogether. Dec. 27 | A resident of the 800 block

of Quailmeadow Lane in Colfax (off Boylston Road) reported an unknown suspect stole her vehicle; it was later recovered in Winston-Salem. Dec. 30 | A resident of the 8800 block of Hutchens Road in Stokesdale (near N.C. 65) reported an unknown suspect used a prying tool to enter his residence and stole a .22 rifle and hubcaps, worth $500 altogether. Dec. 31 | The owner of Belco Food Store on N.C. 150 W in northern Greensboro reported at 2:15 a.m. an unknown suspect broke into the business and stole $1,500 cash, $900 worth of multiple cigarette packs and

$350 in lottery tickets; the suspect left with a getaway driver. Jan. 2 | A resident of the 7000 block of Morganshire Court in Summerfield (near Bunch Road) reported a known suspect stole 19 pieces of fine jewelry, worth about $20,500 altogether. Jan. 2 | A manager at Dollar General on Belews Creek Road in Stokesdale reported an unknown suspect shoplifted 10 boat carts and three boat cart handles, worth $1,950 altogether. Jan. 10 | A resident of the 8600 block of U.S. 158 in Stokesdale reported an unknown suspect stole an unknown amount of firewood.

Celebrating 40 Years   

District 1 Sheriff’s Office 7504 Summerfield Road Main number: (336) 641-2300

Non-emergency crime-related incidents: (336) 373-2222 • 8 a.m.–5 p.m., M-F www.guilfordcountync.gov/ our-county/sheriff-s-office “If you want to KEEP IT, LOCK it or LOSE it!” Report suspicious activity immediately:

Call 911

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

    

    

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

Delighted or dismayed by something in your community?

Ms. Thompson and Ms. Phillips at Oak Ridge Elementary School for coaching the Jump Rope Club. The kids have so much fun, and we really enjoyed seeing their performance last month. We appreciate your dedication to the kids!

email: grinsandgripes@nwobserver.com

Whoever left that adorable clay chicken in my mailbox. I love it!

GRINS and GRIPES

Share your thoughts in

words or less

Grins & Gripes are published based on available space and editor’s discretion.

Dr. Wendy Camp (Northwest Animal Practice) for always promptly answering my questions about my pets and my friends’ pets, even late in the evenings. Such a wonderful and caring person! Mike Stone and Michael Greeson for voting against the wasteful spending of taxpayers’ money on the Redmon house – and grins to the wise citizens who elected you.

Patti Stokes (owner of the Northwest Observer) for offering a free paper to the northwest area for so long. Thank you to all you have given and continue to give this community, and bravo for prioritizing what’s important! Summerfield’s finance officer, Dee Hall, for the seventh annual independent “clean” audit findings report the town received in seven consecutive years. As a citizen, I appreciate your competency and watchful eyes on the town’s financials!

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3709-B Battleground Avenue, Greensboro 336.682.2966 ● indigo-art-studio.com 40

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

Oak Ridge Elementary staff for manning the new car rider procedure and making the process smoother than butter. The kindness you share means a lot, too. Blessed by you in countless ways! Northwest Observer, for the detailed coverage of Oak Ridge council meetings. It’s how I stay informed about town business, which is important for every citizen. Please don’t cut it. Take a survey first – I bet many other readers read it too. Editor’s note: We’re happy to continue offering detailed coverage of local town council meetings, but are trying to get a better sense from readers as to whether it’s valuable enough to invest so much of our time and so much space in our paper. Other than our Grins and Gripes section, we get very little direct feedback on what’s most important to readers. Have feedback to share? I’d love to hear from you and can be reached at editor@nwobserver.com. The sight of water pipes along U.S. 220 stacked up in preparation for being buried for the casino’s ultimate opening in 2024. Editor’s note: A casino along U.S. 220 in Rockingham County, just four miles from the Town of Summerfield limits, has not been approved by the state legislature, although many believe, hope or fear the issue will reemerge this year and ultimately gain the votes it needs for approval. As to the reader’s comment, according to an article published by Carolina Public Press on Jan. 8, “four North Carolina communities near proposed casino sites

are slated to receive state grants for major water and sewage infrastructure upgrades, but leaders in three of them deny that their projects have anything to do with casinos.” The article stated that state budget funds of more than $54.5 million were allocated this year to Rockingham County – of this, $10 million was designated for water and wastewater projects along U.S. 220. Lance Metzler, Rockingham County manager, told the Carolina Public Press the funds allocated to the county this year and over the past two years “have nothing to do with the recently proposed entertainment district. The water and sewage upgrade ‘has been a plan for years,’” Metzler was quoted as saying, noting funding for increased water and sewer infrastructure has been to accommodate growth in the area. Whoever gave Sasquatch on N.C. 150 the Christmas hat. Wanted to last year and this year, but never got around to it. Thanks – our community needs more fun and creative acts like this! Whoever suggested that Oak Ridge print and sell a yearly calendar of the “Yard Ladies of Oak Ridge” and donate all the proceeds to the costs of the Farmhouse Community Center. Editor’s note: I ask forgiveness from those who have tired of hearing about the “yard ladies,” but it seems to have a life of its own and it just won’t die. I promise I’ll close the coffin on it … soon. Wendy’s in Oak Ridge. I don’t usually eat fast food, but I had a remarkably pleasant experience there recently. Bryson B. displayed exceptional manners, patience and knowledge of the menu. I genuinely appreciate the outstanding customer service he provided! The person who pitched their

...continued on p. 43

The Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

Coming soon! Novant Health Kernersville Medical Center’s newest addition arriving spring 2024 We are thrilled to announce the upcoming arrival of our brand-new birth center in Kernersville. Expecting parents and partners will find: • Spacious, modern suites • Labor tubs and ladders • Alternative pain management options • Comfortable overnight accommodations for support partners All with the convenience of maternity care close to home.

Learn how you can plan your birth experience with us. Visit NovantHealth.org/WomanCareKernersville or call 336-765-5470.

FARMHOUSE...continued from p. 1

2024 Stokesdwaleest Greensboro north

16th annual edition coming early February!

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EARLY BIRD SPECIAL! Reserve your ad space by Feb. 1 to receive our early bird discount

For more information call (336) 644-7035 or email advertising@nwobserver.com Directly mailed to over 12,950 homes (EVERY HOME with an Oak Ridge (27310), Summerfield (27358) and Stokesdale (27357) zip code)

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Online year-round at nwobserver.com and shared with over 16,000 followers on Facebook 42

JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

Photo by Patti Stokes/NWO

Work is underway on renovating the Redmon house at the corner of Linville Road and Lisa Drive in Oak Ridge, despite opposition from some citizens and council members. will defray costs to the town.

“It’s gone a long way at this point,” councilman Michael Greeson said. “The longer we go, the more it is going to cost to get out of it. If you just look at the numbers, we’re probably better off to finish it.”

Citing Kinneman’s memo to council members from the Bar meeting, Harton said walking away from the project would require Oak Ridge to pay the contractor $75,000 to $100,000 in walkaway fees. The town has already sunk roughly $100,000 into the project and would possibly jeopardize state and federal funding for the renovation, he said. As a second option, the council discussed stabilizing the house with repairs to the foundation and the installation of a new roof and windows, at an estimated cost of about $400,000. Plans to renovate the interior and add a kitchen and bathrooms would be halted, and possibly resumed with money from private donations and fundraising.

Stone didn’t offer a motion to halt the project after discussion among council members indicated a majority favored proceeding with the renovation and expansion of the building to create the Farmhouse Community Center. “We’re going to see a huge number,” “It is prudent to continue with the said Stone, expressing his disappointproject,” Kinneman said. “I believe we’ve ment that council members had never gone far enough that to stop the project set a maximum price tag for how and go back, or attempt to go back much they would be willing to spend would not be a very good use of the money.” on the renovation. Stone and Greeson were elected to the council this past Schneider reiterated her support November after campaigning against of the project, saying that creating a what they considered excessive spending new use for the property represents on the project. smart historic preservation. At the other Kinneman, Greeson and town extreme, demolishing the house, as staff recently met with officials of Bar some have suggested, would send a Construction Co. to look for cost“bad signal” about the town’s commitreducing for theObserver project. • Totally ment to historic she said. The options Northwest local since preservation, 1996

GRINS & GRIPES

...continued from p. 40

lacy black Victoria’s thong that my daughter and I found in our regular trash cleanup on N.C. 150. It gave us tons of laughs! Also, grins to those who pay attention and don’t try to hit us. PS Communications for delivering the “At Home” publications to our house. Fingers crossed that they will continue, even though regular issues of the NWO are cut back to monthly. Editor’s note: We’re still assessing whether we will publish our spring and fall At Home publications this year. As for regular issues of the NWO being cut back to monthly, just want to note that we are offering more local news, updates and photos on our website throughout the month so that we can keep our readers consistently connected to their communities between our in-print issues. If you haven’t already, check us out at www.nwobserver.com. Stokesdale Town Council members who review the meeting agenda before monthly meetings and come with open minds, prepared for intelligent questions and discussions. Also, I love the park improvements and really appreciate the fun, courteous and professional town staff members!

The people who cut in the merging drivethrough line at McDonald’s in Oak Ridge. Why are you more important than anyone else in line? Oak Ridge councilman Mike Stone, for saying he didn’t know who campaigned for him at Oak Ridge Elementary School on Election Day, and hadn’t seen the campaign brochure that was passed out at this location with his name on it. Hmmmmmm?! CVS/Oak Ridge; after calling the pharmacy repeatedly and getting no answer, I drove there to sort out an error. Was told they no longer answer the phone in the pharmacy. I called CVS on Battleground and they answered on the first ring. Lowes Foods, for the condition of the men’s restroom when I went to use it recently (and in the past). I shouldn’t have college fraternity house restroom flashbacks given what Lowes charges for things.

breathe in this smell, and have it come into our house. Jim Kinneman, Ann Schneider, and Jim Harton for voting to waste well over a half million dollars of taxpayers’ money on the Redmon house. I can’t wait to vote the three of you out of office! ORYA for taking a public stance on who people should vote for. Let us decide for ourselves. Maybe parents would actually show up to a town council meeting and see which members are really looking out for the kids of Oak Ridge. Oak Ridge Councilman Mike Stone, who is so out of touch with “his” community he thinks the average cost per square foot of houses in Oak Ridge is $109/sf. Summerfield council members Hamilton, Clay and Robinson for the lack of respect and support for our hardworking town manager. He deserves better.

All the people who have smart phones, yet don’t use them to check in on friends and neighbors. Some neighbors don’t have family. If you know someone like that, check on them. Oak Ridge Town Council for continuing with the Redmon house renovation. If we stopped today, taxpayers would save $200,000 to $550,000. Are we really this stupid? Janelle Robinson, Summerfield Town Council member, for not disclosing she lives very close to property on which she voted to deny rezoning. She could have been personally affected by new commercial property nearby. Shouldn’t she have recused herself from that vote? Summerfield Town Council members who drug out the Jan. 9 meeting for 5 ½ hours. Seriously, who can make effective decisions when a meeting lasts until almost midnight, and how much citizen participation can you expect at that point?

People burning something terriblesmelling on Saturday, Dec. 23, near the Wolf Ridge neighborhood off Williard Road in Oak Ridge. We should be able to take our dog out and not

Thanks to our advertisers for supporting this community newspaper and making it possible to provide it free-of-charge to our readers.

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www.newhopemedicalgroup.com JAN. 18, 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024

AUTO SALES & SERVICES HOMECARE AVAILABLE

Luxury Auto Service Call EuroHaus for the very best in luxury auto service at (336) 891-3876.

SENIOR HELPERS. Homecare for seniors and others including companion, personal needs, transitional, chronic disease, VA, respite, post-surgery assistance. Can provide house chores as part of service at no extra charge. Knowing your loved one is happy, safe, and cared for is your priority and ours too! Locally owned and operated. Call (336) 893-0300.

HOME SERVICES ELECTRICAL BALEX ELECTRICAL COMPANY, LLC. Residential, commercial and solar electrical services. (336) 298-4192. Do you have ELECTRICAL NEEDS? It's portable generator season. Call Coble Electric, LLC at (336) 209-1486.

FLOORING / TILE

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NEED HELP? Call (336) 644-7035, ext. 10 Mon - Fri • 9am -12:30pm

INDEX Auto Sales / Services ........ 44 Employment .................... 44 Homecare Available......... 44 Consignment Sale............ 44 Home Services ...........44-46 Misc. Services .................. 46 Misc. for Sale .................. 46 Misc. Wanted .................. 46 Real Estate ...................... 46

44 44

COX CUSTOM COATINGS, LLC. Automotive paint and body repair located in Oak Ridge. In business 5+ years. Works with all insurance companies. Quality work at an affordable price! Call Kyle Cox, (336) 707-6219. KNIGHT IMPORT SPECIALTY SERVICE. European Auto Service & Repair. Specializing in factory-scheduled maintenance and repairs. BMW, Audi, Volvo, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini, and Porsche. 32 years experience. 4559 US Hwy. 220, Summerfield (across from Food Lion). (336) 337-0669. SAM'S AUTO BODY SHOP. Any type of body work. 45 years exp. (336) 965-7955. CHOICE TIRE AND AUTOMOTIVE. Oil changes, inspections, alignments and general automotive repairs. 1080 US Hwy 66 S, Kernersville, NC. (336) 992-9002.

EMPLOYMENT STAFF OPENINGS in local childcare center. Need fun, loving, energetic teachers, full- or part-time. Experience preferred but not required. (336) 643-5930. NORTHWEST DAY SCHOOL – The Baby House Childcare. Seeking to hire experienced infant and toddler teachers. Full-time and part-time positions available. Pay scale based on experience and education. Nurturing and caring individual a must. Please call (336) 617-7700.

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KIDS CONSIGNMENT SALE. Friday, March 15, 9am-8pm; Saturday, March 16, 8am-1pm. St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 2715 Horse Pen Creek Road, GSO. Some items 50% off on Sat. www.saintpaulskidssale.com.

MONTERO'S HARDWOOD FLOORING Installation of hardwood, laminate, carpet & tile; hardwood sanding & finishing. Commercial & residential. Insured, 20 yrs. exp. Free est., excellent references. Visit our new showroom at 605 N. Main St., Kernersville, or Monteros-hardwood-flooring.com, or call (336) 215-8842.

HOME SERVICES

GENERAL REPAIR & SERVICES

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING A-ACTION AIR. Furnace check-up, $79.95. (336) 268-6768 or (336) 382-3750.

CLEANING

GARY’S HANDYMAN HOME SERVICES “Providing value for the home-ownership experience.” Gary Gellert, serving NC’s Piedmont Triad area. Garygellert@gmail.com, (336) 423-8223.

PAOLA CLEANING SERVICE. Residential & commercial. Insured. (336) 669-5210.

AFFORDABLE

CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOW CLEANING Gutter cleaning, pressure washing. Fully ins. windowcleaningnc.com. (336) 595-2873.

Why move when you can improve?

CHRISTIAN MOM needs work cleaning houses, running errands. Quality cleaning/ budget friendly. Pet sitting also avail. References. Call Laura Bennett, (336) 231-1838. ANNASARAH'S CLEANING. Excellent references. Trustworthy. Family-owned business. Free estimates. (336) 543-3941. MAID-2- SHINE. Excellent ser vice, 15 years experience. Free estimates, excellent references. (336) 338-0223

DECORATING EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DECORATOR & personal furniture shopper will help you with style, color, shopping & furniture placement. E-mail appeninc@gmail.com or call Ann Appenzeller, (336) 314-1411.

HOME REPAIR handyman ● construction well pumps ● plumbing ● foundations sagging floors...and much more! licensed general contractors

One call fixes all! (336) 643-1184 CLOCK SERVICE. Free house calls for sick clocks. 8103 Windspray Dr., Summerfield. (336) 643-9931. L & T SMALL ENGINE SERVICE. “We get you mowing!” Comm./res., all models. Oak Ridge, NC. Please call (336) 298-4314. Ltsmeng16@gmail.com. APPLIANCE REPAIR – Call Mr. Appliance A step above the rest! (336) 609-5707.

JAN. 18,JAN. 2024 - FEB. 14, 202414, 2024 The Northwest Observer • Totally since 1996 18, 2024 - FEB. Thelocal Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

HOME SERVICES GENERAL HANDYMAN. Repairs, installations, assemblies, etc. Light electrical and plumbing. Yard work and power washing. Insured. No job too small. Give Gordon a call, (336) 253-7700. OLD SCHOOL HOME IMPROVEMENTS. New decks, repairs/replacement, wood rot repairs, bathroom remodeling and other home repairs. “No job too small.” (336) 669-7252. See our display ad on p. 10 of this issue (Neighborhood Marketplace).

GRADING / HAULING ANTHONY’S GRADING & HAULING Excavating, land clearing, demolition, dirt, available. Zane Anthony, (336) 362-4035.

HOME SERVICES

WILSON

Seamless Gutters

Installation, repair, replacement, Leaf Guard

Stokesdale

336-420-0200 GUTTER CLEANING. Affordable. Dependable. Call anytime for free est. (336) 706-0103.

S&M

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H&L GRADING, LLC. No job too tough or too small. Call us first! We are a full-service grading company that specializes in residential projects. Owner/Operator Timmy Hart has more than 30 years of grading and equipment experience. Fully licensed and insured. Land clearing, debris removal, driveways, French drains, portable sawmill and much more. We also do custom roughcut lumber. Call owner/operator Bobby Lipstreu, (336) 543-7867.

LAWNCARE / LANDSCAPING

GAULDIN TRUCKING, grading & hauling, bobcat work, lot clearing, driveways, fill dirt, gravel, etc. (336) 362-1150.

DELIMA LAWNCARE. Commercial & residential. Free estimates. (336) 669-5210. See our display ad on p. 8 of this issue.

E&W HAULING & GRADING INC. Driveways, fill dirt, demolition, lot clearing, excavating, bobcat work, etc. (336) 451-1282.

CM STUMP GRINDING, LLC. Family owned and operated. Commercial/residential. Free quotes! (336) 317-4600.

BRAD'S BOBCAT & HAULING SVCS, LLC. Debris removal, grading, gravel/dirt, driveways, concrete work. (336) 362-3647.

SOUTHERN CUTZ LAWN CARE. Offering complete lawn maintenance services, landscaping, bush hogging, privacy fence installation/repair/staining, and stump grinding. Nathan Adkins, (336) 430-6086.

GUTTERS / SIDING / WINDOWS ALLPRO SEAMLESS GUTTERS. Installation of 5” and 6” seamless gutters, downspouts and leaf protection. Insured, free estimates. (336) 362-2099. See our display ad on p. 10 of this issue (Neighborhood Marketplace).

Your HOME SERVICES company should be here! Place your classified ad:

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BRADY LANDSCAPES. BBB accredited A+. A full-service landscape contracting co. Seasonal color, mulch & pine needles. Shrubbery bed installation & renovation. 40 years exp. Fully insured. FREE EST. (336) 621-2383. www.bradylandscapes.com. EXTERIOR GREENSCAPES. Lawn maintenance service. Call for a free estimate (336) 682-1456.

HOME SERVICES

STEVE NEWMAN, TREE SERVICE. FREE EST. 40+ yrs. exp. Fully insured. Any phase of tree work. Natural area thinning and cleanup. Oak Ridge. (336) 643-1119.

MASONRY

STRAIGHT EDGE LAWN CARE. Free estimates. Please call (336) 306-0274. R C LAWN CARE. Res./comm. lawn service. Fully insured. Call/text (336) 231-9599. GUZMAN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE Pine needles, mulch, leaf removal, tree pruning, complete lawn maint. (336) 655-6490. GOSSETT'S LAWNCARE. Complete lawn care/maintenance. Res./comm. Fully insured. In business for 33 yrs. (336) 451-5216. DSL DRAIN SYSTEMS & LANDSCAPING. (336) 362-4354. INTEGRITY TREE SERVICE, LLC. Tree removal, risk assessment, tree pruning, dead wood removal. Affordable/competitive pricing. Fully insured. Owner-operated. Call for free estimate, (336) 210-8310. HILL LAWNCARE & OUTDOOR SERVICES. Free estimates. Call (336) 669-5448. WILSON LANDSCAPING, INC. Lawn maint., landscaping. Irrigation/landscape contractor. Hardscaping & landscape lighting. 26 years exp. (336) 399-7764. MEDLIN'S LANDSCAPING. Res./comm. lawn service. Fully insured. Call/text (336) 817-3036. ARBOR MASTERS TREE SERVICE Total tree removal, storm damage cleanup, shrub and tree pruning. Free estimates. Licensed & insured. (336) 643-9157. DILLON TREE SERVICE. Certified arborists. BBB accredited. Fully insured. Familyowned. Tree removal and trimming. Available for emergency removals 24/7. Free estimates. (336) 996-6156. www.dillontreeservice.com. info@dillontreeservice.com.

The Northwest Observer

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COLONIAL MASONRY. 40 yrs. exp. Specializing in outdoor living spaces; dry-stack natural stone and flagstone. Let us help you plan your patio, fire pit, fireplace, kitchen – or anything else you would like! Call (336) 949-9019. www.colonialmasonry.com. NEW PHASE CONCRETE. Here for all your concrete needs including pouring driveways, patios, garage slabs, pool decks, etc. Specializing in decorative stamp, stained, epoxy and all other concrete finishes as well. Also offering refurbishment of existing stamped concrete. Make your existing stamped look like new again. (336) 399-1474 or (336) 595-4654.

MISC. HOME SERVICES/PRODUCTS ON EAGLE'S WINGS residential home design/drafting. Call Patti, (336) 605-0519. BOB RENTS. Whether you’re planning a small project or a major one, we’ll deliver the tools you need to do the job yourself. (336) 298-8387. See our display ad on p. 10 of this issue (Neighborhood Marketplace).

Phil Barker’s

Refinishing Furniture Refinishing & Repairs Colored lacquering on furniture

(336) 275-5056 1316 Headquarters Dr., Greensboro, NC

Philbarkersrefinishing@gmail.com HOME SUPPORT SERVICES PROVIDER. Oak Ridge and surrounding area. Will run errands and do light housekeeping. M,W,F. Call (336) 707-4946; ask for Katrena. JUNK & DEBRIS REMOVAL, construction, remodeling, and general cleanup, outbuildings, garages, basements, yard waste, etc. Also can haul mulch. Call (336) 706-8470.

continued on p. 46

Thelocal Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996 2024 - FEB. 14, 2024 The Northwest Observer • Totally since 1996 JAN. 18,JAN. 202418, - FEB. 14, 2024

45 45

HOME SERVICES

MISC. FOR SALE

PEARMAN QUARRY LCID. Inert debris landfill. Yard waste, concrete, etc. Mulch and fill dirt available. (336) 803-2195 or (336) 558-7673.

PRESSURE WASHING, gutter & window cleaning. Fully insured. Crystal Clear, www. windowcleaningnc.com or (336) 595-2873.

CLINARD & SON ROOFING, LLC. 40 + years experience. (336) 643-8191.

BABY GRAND PIANO. A beautiful medium brown Brambach, $600. Oak roll-top desk, $250. Text Andy Michels, (336) 601-0203.

REMODELING / CONSTRUCTION

MISC. SERVICES

SEASONED FIREWOOD. Any size load delivered or you pick up. Steve Newman Tree Service. Call (336) 643-1119.

PAINTING & DRYWALL CARLOS & SON PAINTING. Interior & exterior. 24 hours/7 days per week. Free estimates. Licensed/insured. (336) 669-5210. See our display ad on p. 8 of this issue. STILL PERFECTION PAINTING. Reliable, skilled, affordable. Painting, pressure washing, handyman services. Scott Still, (336) 462-3683, stillperfectionpainting.com. PAINTING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR, 40 yrs. exp. Sheetrock repair. Average BDRM walls $100. Insured. Call Brad Rogers, (336) 314-3186.

BEK Paint Co. Residential & Commercial David & Judy Long, owners

(336) 931-0600

BEKPaintCompany.com • References Available • Licensed & Insured • All Work Guaranteed

LAWSON'S PAINTING. Custom decks, pressure washing, boat docks, block fill, wood repair, stain work, textured ceilings, sheetrock repair. Call (336) 253-9089.

PLUMBING WEBSTER & SONS PLUMBING, Inc. (336) 992-2503. Licensed, insured, bonded. 24/7 service. Plumbing, drain cleaning, well pumps. Give us a call, we do it all! Go to www.webstersplumbing.com for more info. BRANSON PLUMBING & SOLAR. No job too small! Experienced, guaranteed. Lic./ Ins. Cleanliness in your home is our #1 priority. Call Mark, (336) 337-7924.

PRESSURE WASHING HOUSE and ROOF SOFT WASHING. Martin's Pressure Washing. (919) 931-0856.

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KEITH SMITH CONSTRUCTION, LLC. N.C. general contractor with 30 years experience. Specializing in new homes, room additions, kitchens & baths, garages, decks, vinyl siding and windows, painting, tile, laminate and vinyl plank, and remodeling of all kinds. Quality for the right price. Free est. Please call (336) 362-7469.

Construction Services, INC

BUILDING | RENOVATIONS | ADDITIONS

Screened porches | Sunrooms | Eze-Breeze®

(336) 644-8615 office (336) 508-5242 cell Licensed & insured NC Gen. Contractor #72797

AFFORDABLE HOME REPAIRS. One call fixes all! A+ with BBB. For a free estimate call (336) 643-1184 or (336) 987-0350. RENOVATION WORKS, INC. New construction, remodeling, additions, kitchen, bath and decks. We are a locally owned, full-service design and build company, A+ accredited with the BBB. Visit www.myrenovationworks.com or call (336) 427-7391 to start your next project. BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Kitchens/baths, custom decks, garages, dock work, siding, windows, roofing, rotted wood. Senior discount. 44 years exp. (336) 362-6343 or (336) 215-6122.

ROOFING BELEWS CREEK CONSTRUCTION. Lifetime shingle and metal roofing. Free estimates. Since 1979. (336) 362-6343 or (336) 215-6122. DUSTIN CLINARD ROOFING. Shingles, metal, and leak repairs. Certified for 50year non-prorated shingle warranties. Call (336) 268-1908.

HAY for sale, round bales. $40 per bale. (336) 430-9507.

locally owned & operated 6705 US Hwy 158, Stokesdale

(336) 643-9963 (affiliated with Stokesdale Storage)

ATCHISON WELDING. General welding, blacksmithing & custom iron work. Local & honest. Mike Atchison, (336) 486-9837. KIMBERLY THACKER. Accounting & Tax Services for individuals and businesses. Intuit Quickbooks ProAdvisor. See our display ad on p. 10 of this issue (Neighborhood Marketplace). PORTABLE WELDING SERVICE. Welding & fabrication services. Call (336) 908-6906.

MISC. WANTED $$$ – WILL PAY CASH for your junk / wrecked vehicle. For quote, call (336) 552-0328. YARN NEEDED to make children's hats for homeless shelter. Call Beth, (336) 644-8155. Wanted: FARM EQUIPMENT to buy. All kinds. Please call (336) 430-9507.

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

We Help Everyone! SELLERS & BUYERS

WELDING AND TRAILER REPAIR. Call Tim, (336) 402-3869.

PIANO LESSONS, all ages and levels, Summerfield area. Patti, (336) 298-4181.

(336) 643-4248

www.ANewDawnRealty.com LAND FOR SALE

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Gated access with 24/7 camera surveillance (336) 643-9963 • 8207 B & G Court, Stokesdale GRAPHIC DESIGN. Affordable solutions for all your creative needs. Specializing in print, digital, presentation design, logo creation, brochures and more. Located in Summerfield. Phone (336) 988-2657 or email david@dpinterdesigns.com.

FINISHED CORNER LOT. Located on Stafford Mill Rd., Oak Ridge. (336) 209-1296. LOTS for sale! Exclusive homesites. Only 4 remain. No HOA. Summerfield address. Rockingham County taxes. Call (336) 314-3773 today. Owner financing may be available.

LAND WANTED WANTED: LAND. Any size or shape. Vacant or with dwellings. Matters not. We pay CASH! Quick closings! Call (336) 430-9507.

JAN. 18,JAN. 2024 - FEB. 14,- FEB. 202414, 2024 The Northwest Observer • Totally since 1996 18, 2024 Thelocal Northwest Observer • Totally local since 1996

index of DISPLAY ADVERTISERS

Please support our advertisers, and tell them where you saw their ad! ACCOUNTING

Kimberly Thacker Accounting.....................10 Anders & Barrow CPAs, PC............................ 3

ART/DANCE/MUSIC

Destination Arts.............................................. BC Indigo Art Studio.............................................. 40

AUTOMOTIVE SALES / SERVICE

EuroHaus............................................................ 44 Prestige Car Wash............................................25 Tire Max............................................................... 31

BUILDING / REMODELING

CJ Builders ......................................................... 14 Don Mills Builders ............................................15 Disney Construction Company ................... 13 Old School Home Repair .............................10 Ray Bullins Construction ...............................18 R&K Custom Homes ......................................19 TM Construction Services ........................... 46 Walraven Signature Homes .........................18

CANDIDATES

Allpro Seamless Guttering LLC....................10 Bob Rents, LLC..................................................10 BEK Paint Company....................................... 46 Carlos & Son Painting....................................... 8 DeLima Lawncare, LLC.................................... 8 Dillon Tree Service............................................ 11 Phil Barker’s Refinishing.................................45 Rymack Storage............................................... 46 S&M Seamless Gutters..................................45 Stokesdale Heating & Air..............................26 Stokesdale Storage.......................................... 46 Wilson Seamless Gutters...............................45

LEGAL SERVICES

Barbour & Williams Law................................... 3

MEDICAL / HEARING / PT

Aim Hearing & Audiology............................. 16 Forsyth Pediatrics..............................................25 New Hope Medical..........................................43 Novant Health..............................................9, 41 Oak Ridge Physical Therapy.........................24

John Blust, candidate NC House 62........... 5 Michelle Bardsley, candidate NC 62..........23 Bill Goebel, candidate school board..........37

Olmsted Orthodontics........................... 25, 36 Reynolds & Stoner Orthodontics................ 35

COMMUNITY COLLEGE

PET SERVICES & PRODUCTS

GTCC................................................................... 33

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

Summerfield Merchants Association.........28 Guilford Backpack Ministry...........................27

DENTAL SERVICES

Magnolia Shores Family Dental.................... 2 Summerfield Family Dentistry................ 7, 35

FINANCIAL SERVICES

RESTAURANTS

HAIR CARE

SCHOOLS

INSURANCE

SCIENCE CTR/ZOOLOGICAL PARK

HOME PRODUCTS & SERVICES

YOUTH SPORTS / CAMPS

Gladwell Insurance Agency..........................22 Affordable Home Repair............................... 44

“Almost everyone I know thinks about the intersection at the school as being at the center of Oak Ridge,” he said. “What a great place to be! I am going to end my career in this building, looking out at the elementary school where I attended. And, this will be the third generation doing business in this location… I wish we could have done it (constructed the new office building) a year ago, but it will be great once we get it done. And we will do it one time and we’ll do it right!”

A New Dawn Realty....................................... 46 Nicole Gillespie, RE/MAX........................ 6, 29 Ramilya Siegel, Keller Williams...................... 4 Smith Marketing, Allen Tate......................... 12

RETAIL

Great Clips...........................................................24

An Oak Ridge native, Anders attended elementary school right across the street from where his office building will be constructed.

REAL ESTATE

EVENTS

NCDOT Public Meeting.................................19

Moore House will probably take many years,” he continued. “First, we have to try to stabilize it. We still have to get people inside of it to see if the improvements the former property owner made were appropriate and helped, or if they were more harmful. I want to make it look better for the community and attractive beside our new building.” A landscaping plan with “appropriate plantings for the historic house that will add ambience” is in the development stage. “I think the Moore house will look really good when we get some shrubs around it with some color,” Anders said. As for removing the bamboo that Anders inherited when he purchased the Moore house property? “We’re over halfway with winning the war on the bamboo,” he said. Anders gets excited when talking about the research he has done on his future new office building in Oak Ridge’s historic district.

“We’ll have historically appropriate lighting poles at the new building, and it will have a front porch and a small back porch. It’s not going to look like an office building. I want it to blend in and be more house-like,” he said.

Northwest Animal Hospital.......................... 30

Forbis & Dick..................................................... 38

FUNERAL SERVICES

...continued from p. 20

ORTHODONTIC CARE

Bistro 150............................................................25 McDonald’s Oak Ridge................................. 34 Rio Grande..........................................................24 Ridge Shrimp & Oyster...................................24

John Proia, CFP.................................................39

MOORE HOUSE

celebrating 27 years of covering northwest Guilford County’s local matters

Golden Antiques & Treasures..................... 38 Revolution Academy.......................................... 2 Greensboro Science Center..........................32 Oak Ridge Youth Association..............21, 34

www.nwobserver.com

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

Postal Patron PO Box 268, Oak Ridge, NC 27310 • (336) 644-7035

y p p a H

PAID

Oak Ridge, NC Permit No. 22 ECRWSS

! e r e h s n happe

It’s not too late to join the fun!

your first class is on us

dance, ages 18 months and up ● acrobatics/tumbling, ages 3 and up ● private music lessons, ages 5 and up

DestinationArtsCenter.com or call (336) 740-6891 TWO LOCATIONS: Summerfield: 4446-J US Hwy 220 North, Summerfield & Oak Ridge: 2205-X Oak Ridge Road, Oak Ridge